As a professional, one important thing to keep in mind when writing an article on a legal topic like “elements of a valid oral contract” is to make sure that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date. To that end, here are some key points to consider when discussing the elements of a valid oral contract:

1. Offer and acceptance: The first element of any contract, whether oral or written, is that there must be a clear offer made by one party and an acceptance of that offer by the other party. In an oral contract, this can take the form of a verbal agreement between the parties, either in person or over the phone.

2. Consideration: Another essential element of a valid contract is consideration, which is basically something of value that each party agrees to give or do in exchange for the other`s promise. This could be money, goods, services, or even a promise to refrain from doing something (such as not competing with the other party).

3. Intent to create legal relations: For a contract to be enforceable, both parties must have an intention to be bound by its terms. In other words, they must believe that they are entering into a legally binding agreement, rather than just having a casual conversation or making idle promises.

4. Capacity to contract: Both parties must have the legal capacity to enter into a contract. This means that they must be of legal age, mentally competent, and not under any undue influence or duress.

5. Legal subject matter: Finally, any contract (whether oral or written) must involve a legal subject matter. This means that the contract must not be for an illegal purpose, and the terms of the agreement must not violate any laws or public policies.

Overall, while oral contracts can be a bit trickier to enforce than written contracts (since they often rely on one party`s word against another`s), they can still be legally binding if they meet the above elements and can be proven in court. As with any legal issue, it`s always a good idea to consult with an attorney if you have any questions or concerns.