What makes a document legal?

Answer:

Documents aren't legal. They are evidence of agreements. Some of them can be legal documents, recording legal agreements. In most cases to be used as evidence, it helps if they are signed and dated. Signatures of witnesses or notarization makes it more credible.


Another Perspective


The answer is proper execution.

A legal document (or legal instrument) is formally executed written evidence of an enforceable act between parties such as transaction between parties, a relationship between parties such as an agreement, contract, obligation or right. "Legal instrument" is a legal term of art. In order to be enforceable against the parties a document must be fully executed according to the laws in that state.

Proper execution of a document makes it a legal document. For example, an unsigned promissory note is not a legal document. A properly drafted promissory note signed by the debtor, witnessed and notarized is a legal document and enforceable in court. An unsigned deed is not a legal document and conveys nothing. It cannot be enforced in court. A properly signed, witnessed and notarized deed is a legal document. Signed and witnessed legal documents are prima facie evidence in the moving party's favor.