In plain English
It is traditional formal closing language used just before the parties sign a contract. Here, "witness" means proof, so the signatures that follow serve as evidence that the parties agreed to the contract and formally signed it.
In context
When it introduces the signature blocks with formal closing language, it states that the signatures below are being given as evidence that the parties have agreed to and executed the contract.
- Situation
- Reading agreement sections, parties, dates, signatures, and execution status
- What it communicates
- introduces the signature blocks with formal closing language.
Meaning limits
By itself, this phrase does not establish that all needed signatures are present or that the contract is enforceable.
Examples
“In witness whereof, the buyer and the seller signed the purchase agreement below.”
“The lease concluded with In witness whereof, after which the landlord and tenant each signed on a separate line.”