The parole evidence rule prevents what?

The parole evidence rule primarily prevents any verbal agreements or understandings that were made prior to the finalization of a written contract from altering, contradicting, or adding to the written terms of that contract. This rule emphasizes the integrity of the written document, indicating that once parties have put their agreement into writing, they cannot later introduce outside evidence to change the meaning of that written agreement.

This means that if a party attempts to bring in previous discussions or negotiations that might alter the terms of the written contract, those attempts would typically be dismissed under this rule.

The chosen answer reflects a misunderstanding of the core function of the parole evidence rule. The rule doesn't focus on amending contracts unilaterally; instead, it protects the written document by excluding evidence of prior negotiations or conversations that would change its meaning or terms. The other options present scenarios that are related to the rule's function, as they deal with issues of modifying agreements or external factors that could potentially influence a contract's interpretation.