Which element typically ensures that a contract has a legal purpose?

To ensure that a contract has a legal purpose, it is essential that the purpose of the contract complies with existing laws. This means that the terms and conditions outlined in the contract must not promote or involve illegal activities, nor result in outcomes that are against public policy. For a contract to be enforceable, the objectives it seeks to achieve must be lawful and align with the legal framework governing contracts. If a contract involves a purpose that is illegal, it would be considered void and unenforceable.

The other elements, such as the intention of both parties, the agreement being in written form, and the exchange of consideration, are all important aspects of forming a valid contract, but they do not alone ensure that the contract has a legal purpose. Intention reflects the parties' desires, written form may be necessary for certain types of contracts, and consideration involves the value exchanged, but none of these elements addresses the fundamental requirement that the contract's objective must not contravene laws or regulations.