An agreement is considered illegal when its performance is illegal or in violation of laws and ethical standards. This means that even if an agreement is written down and signed by both parties involved, it can still be considered void and unenforceable if it goes against the law.

Illegal agreements are not just frowned upon, they are actually strictly prohibited by law. The consequences of entering into such agreements can be severe, including hefty fines, criminal charges, and even imprisonment.

There are several types of agreements that are considered illegal, with some of them being more common than others. One type is an agreement that violates public policy. For example, an agreement between two parties to commit a crime or engage in illegal activities would be voided by the courts. Agreements that are morally or ethically wrong, such as agreements that promote discrimination or exploitation, are also considered to be against public policy.

Another type of illegal agreement is one that involves fraudulent or deceitful practices. In such cases, one party may intentionally misrepresent facts or make false promises to induce the other party to agree to something that is not in their best interest.

An agreement that restricts trade or competition is also considered to be illegal. Such agreements, also known as anti-competitive agreements, are designed to prevent competitors from gaining an advantage in the marketplace. These agreements can range from price-fixing to exclusive supply agreements.

Additionally, an agreement that is entered into without the full consent of one or both parties may be considered illegal. This could be the result of coercion, duress, or other forms of undue influence.

It is important for individuals and businesses to understand the legal implications of the agreements they enter into. Any agreement that violates laws or ethical standards could result in serious consequences, both legally and financially.

In conclusion, an agreement is illegal when its performance goes against the law or ethical standards. Be sure to carefully review any agreement before entering into it and seek legal advice if you are uncertain about its legality. By doing so, you can avoid the potential consequences of entering into an illegal agreement.