Which statement best describes the relationship between integration and the parol evidence rule?

• A. A fully integrated writing excludes extrinsic evidence that contradicts terms.
• B. Integration has no effect on parol evidence.
• C. A fully integrated writing allows extrinsic evidence that contradicts terms.
• D. Integration requires extrinsic evidence to be oral.

Answer: (A)

When a contract’s writing is fully integrated, it is treated as the complete and final expression of the parties’ agreement. The parol evidence rule then bars extrinsic evidence that would contradict or vary those written terms, so outside promises or statements cannot override what the writing says. This keeps the contract’s terms stable and enforceable as written. Extrinsic evidence isn’t completely unavailable, though; it can be used to interpret ambiguous language or to establish defenses like fraud, mistake, or lack of integrity of the agreement, but not to change the terms that the writing already sets forth.