Which of the following is not a component of a legally binding contract?

A legally binding contract typically consists of several essential components, including acceptance, consideration, and the intention to create a legal relationship. Acceptance refers to the agreement of both parties to the terms of the contract. Consideration is the value exchanged between the parties, which can be in the form of money, services, or goods. The intention to create a legal relationship means that both parties intend for the agreement to be enforceable by law.

While having a written agreement can be beneficial and is often required for certain types of contracts, it is not a universal requirement for all legally binding contracts. Many contracts can be formed verbally or even through conduct, as long as the essential components of acceptance, consideration, and intent are present. Thus, a written agreement is not a necessary component of a legally binding contract in every circumstance, making it the correct answer in this context.