A contract executed under seal is known as what type of contract?

A contract executed under seal is classified as a formal contract. The term "formal" in this context indicates that the contract meets certain legal requirements and formalities, such as being signed and sealed, which may imply that it has a higher level of enforceability compared to informal contracts. Formal contracts are often used for significant obligations or transactions, like deeds, bonds, or similar commitments, where the presence of a seal signifies the intent to create a legally binding agreement.

Other types of contracts may vary in their legal standing and implications. Informal contracts often do not require such formalities and can be verbal or implied agreements. Written contracts must be documented but don’t necessarily have to be executed under seal to be valid. Standard contracts are typically pre-printed forms that include terms and conditions but do not specifically imply the formalities of being under seal. Thus, the designation of a contract as "formal" directly relates to the presence of a seal and the stricter conditions under which it is enforced.