Deals were once made with a handshake and a little spit. “My word is my bond” was once a relied upon phrase, but it is one that left a lot of room for confusion. The details of an oral deal cannot be retraced, what was said is but a whisper in the wind — or more a “he said, she said” conversation for the future.

While the legal profession may receive some criticism for its affinity for putting everything onto paper, there is a reason for it. Contracts that are written result in enough disputes, but contract relationships made orally leave even more room for ambiguity. The musical performer Shakira has found herself in the center of a business dispute based on an oral contract.

Her former boyfriend and now former business manager of six years has filed a lawsuit over the alleged oral contract promising him a share of the partnership profits. “He said” that he was instrumental in promoting the singer’s career and claims that she owes him at least $100 million.

“She said” that something a little bit different occurred. According to Shakira, her former partner took money without authorization. She claims that the boyfriend not only gave himself a little bonus, but he misappropriated other funds as well, using them for personal expenses. He of course, denies these allegations.

Without a written contract, it is nearly impossible to go back and determine what was discussed and whether there was in fact a contract. Even if it is determined that there was a verbal deal struck, courts are less willing to uphold these types of contracts.

Source: BBC News, “Shakira sued for $100m by former boyfriend,” Dec. 2, 2012