What defines an unenforceable contract?

An unenforceable contract is defined as one that, while it may have valid elements and could potentially be recognized as binding under the law, cannot be enforced due to certain legal defenses or limitations. This situation often arises from deficiencies such as the absence of required formalities (like a written agreement in cases where the law dictates it), the expiration of the statute of limitations, or conditions that prevent the claim from being brought to court.

The scenario of an unenforceable contract contrasts with other options, such as a contract that has never been agreed upon (which means there is no contract to begin with), one that has been fulfilled (which cannot be unenforceable because it has been performed), or one that is always deemed to be void (as a void contract has no legal effect from the beginning). Therefore, the essence of an unenforceable contract lies in its validity on the surface but the inability to compel performance or seek remedies under it due to specific legal barriers.