Final answer:
Oral agreements can be legally binding and valid, but proving their terms can be difficult, and certain types of contracts must be in writing due to the Statute of Frauds. Written agreements are recommended for clarity and ease of enforcement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Contrary to common belief, oral agreements can be as valid and legally binding as written contracts, but this depends on the jurisdiction and the type of agreement. There are, however, certain contracts that must be in writing to be legally enforceable, which is known as the Statute of Frauds. In situations where the Statute of Frauds does not apply, an oral contract is valid as long as it has all the elements necessary to form a contract: offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual intent to be bound. Nevertheless, proving the terms and the existence of an oral agreement can be challenging in a legal dispute, hence the importance of understanding and interpreting the language used in any agreement, whether oral or written. Utilizing rhetorical strategies may be necessary to argue one's interpretation of such an agreement, as stated in the question prompt.
Moreover, while oral agreements can be legally binding, they are often subject to the personal interpretations of the parties involved, and without written documentation, these interpretations can vary widely, leading to potential conflicts. Thus, it is generally recommended to have all significant agreements formalized in writing.