Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom and Ireland

Related legal acts

Key definition

Execution definition

What does Execution mean? Execution describes how a party gives legal effect to a document—typically a contract or deed—by signing it (and, for some bodies, sealing it) and, for deeds, ensuring any required attestation and delivery/formalities are met. It is a practical term; the governing rules are set by legislation and case law in each jurisdiction. England & Wales and Northern Ireland: simple contracts are usually executed by signature, including by electronic signature if the signer intends to authenticate and has authority. Deeds require signature by an individual in the physical presence of a witness who attests the signature; companies execute under Companies...

Executing simple contracts across key jurisdictions: company, individual and partnership formalities, authority, e-signatures and registration requirements

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Practice notes

Guide to executing simple Contracts across Jurisdictions

This guide explains the requirements for signing simple contracts in a range of international jurisdictions. A table gives a quick-reference snapshot of the Execution formalities for companies, individuals and partnerships in different countries. Fuller commentary for each overseas jurisdiction listed in the table appears in the sections below.

For guidance on the execution of deeds in various jurisdictions, see Practice Note: Execution of deeds—jurisdictional guide. For electronic signatures, see Practice Note: E-signatures—jurisdictional guide. For the formation of contracts, see Practice Note: Contract formation—jurisdictional guide. For executing documents under Scots law, see: Execution—Scotland—overview.

Please note: this is an introductory resource only, and local advice from suitably qualified legal professionals in the relevant country should be obtained where appropriate.

Summary table

What are the requirements for companies when executing contracts?
What are the requirements for individuals when executing contracts?
What are the requirements for partnerships when executing contracts?

Argentina

The chair of the board represents the company, so their signature alone is sufficient to bind it. However, the company’s by-laws, or a later board resolution, might grant...

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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