Legal Definitions - even date

The legal phrase "even date" simply means the same date. It is used in a legal document to refer to another document that was created, signed, or became effective on the exact same day. This usage often highlights that the documents are related, part of the same transaction, or intended to be read together.

Here are a few examples to illustrate how "even date" is used:

• Business Contracts: Imagine a software company entering into a major licensing agreement with a client. On the even date that the main "Software License Agreement" is signed, they also sign a separate "Service Level Agreement" (SLA) outlining performance guarantees and support. The Software License Agreement might contain a clause stating, "This Agreement incorporates by reference the Service Level Agreement of even date herewith."

  Explanation: This means both the Software License Agreement and the Service Level Agreement were executed on the same day. By referring to the SLA as being of "even date," the main contract clearly links the two documents, indicating they are part of the same overall business arrangement and should be considered together.

• Estate Planning Documents: A person might prepare their Last Will and Testament. Later on the very same day, they decide to make a small, specific change and sign a separate document called a "Codicil" (an amendment to a will). The Codicil would typically state, "This Codicil amends the Last Will and Testament of even date."

  Explanation: Here, "even date" confirms that the Codicil was signed on the exact same day as the original Will. This is important for establishing the sequence and intent of the documents, showing that the amendment was made immediately after or concurrently with the creation of the will, rather than at a much later time.

• Loan Agreements: When someone takes out a loan, they often sign a "Promissory Note" (a promise to repay the loan) and a separate "Security Agreement" (which grants the lender a right to certain property if the loan isn't repaid). The Promissory Note might include language like, "This Promissory Note is secured by a Security Agreement of even date."

  Explanation: This phrase indicates that both the Promissory Note and the Security Agreement were signed on the same day. It legally connects the two documents, making it clear that the promise to repay (the Note) is directly linked to the collateral provided (in the Security Agreement) as part of a single lending transaction.