What does the parole evidence rule generally restrict in legal proceedings?

The parole evidence rule is a legal principle that governs the admissibility of evidence related to a written contract. Specifically, it restricts the introduction of prior oral statements or agreements that contradict, modify, or add to the terms of the written contract in legal disputes. This rule is based on the understanding that a final written contract is intended to embody the complete agreement between the parties, thereby excluding prior negotiations or conversations that may alter its meaning.

In the context of contract disputes, when parties have put their agreement into a written form, the court will generally not allow them to introduce oral statements made before or at the time of the contract that are not included in that final document. This aims to prevent the uncertainty that could arise from different interpretations of verbal agreements and helps maintain the integrity of the written contract.

In contrast to the other options, which address various aspects of legal proceedings, the correct answer accurately describes the specific focus of the parole evidence rule on prior oral statements in contract matters.