What is the "Parol Evidence Rule" in Ohio?

The Parol Evidence Rule in Ohio, as in many other jurisdictions, is designed to maintain the integrity of written contracts by preventing parties from introducing oral statements or other external evidence to modify or contradict the written terms of the agreement. This rule is grounded in the principle that if the parties have executed a written contract that is intended to be a complete and final expression of their agreement, then any prior or contemporaneous oral agreements that are not included in the written document cannot be used to change its meaning.

By adhering to this rule, courts aim to uphold the reliability of written contracts and protect parties from the uncertainties and potential disputes that might arise from conflicting oral statements. This ensures that the final written text of a contract is given primacy in judicial interpretation.

The correct answer captures the essence of this rule as it clearly articulates the limitation placed on the use of evidence external to the written agreement, thereby reinforcing the importance of written contracts in legal proceedings. Other options suggest incorrect applications or interpretations of the rule, such as allowing oral statements to modify written contracts, focusing solely on verbal agreements, or mischaracterizing the rule as a guideline rather than a binding legal principle.