Generate contract recitals
AI writes 'Whereas' background paragraphs from your key facts. Get professional recitals in seconds.
Generate contract recitals
River's Contract Recitals Generator creates professional background paragraphs for contracts. Recitals (also called 'Whereas' clauses or preambles) provide context by stating why parties are entering the contract and relevant background facts. The AI writes formal recitals from your key facts using proper 'WHEREAS' formatting. Within seconds, you have professional contract opening language ready to insert. Perfect for all contract drafters creating formal agreements.
Unlike contracts that jump straight into obligations, recitals provide context and can aid contract interpretation if disputes arise. Well-written recitals state each party's relevant characteristics, their business relationship, the purpose of the contract, and the mutual benefit each party expects. The AI creates formal, professional language that sets the proper tone for commercial agreements.
This tool is perfect for all contract drafters adding context to agreements, attorneys creating formal contracts, corporate counsel documenting deal background, and anyone drafting commercial agreements. Use recitals in formal contracts, particularly those involving significant transactions or complex relationships. Great for providing interpretive context. The AI creates standard recitals attorneys customize for specific deals.
The Purpose of Contract Recitals
Recitals serve multiple purposes. They provide context that helps readers quickly understand what the contract is about. They establish background facts that might aid interpretation if disputes arise. They can demonstrate mutual benefit supporting contract consideration. They set a professional, formal tone. While recitals aren't operative provisions creating obligations, courts sometimes reference recitals when interpreting ambiguous contract terms. Well-drafted recitals frame the transaction positively and establish context for the operative provisions that follow.
Recitals typically follow a standard format using 'WHEREAS' paragraphs ending with 'NOW, THEREFORE.' Each WHEREAS paragraph states one background fact or context element. Traditional formatting capitalizes 'WHEREAS,' ends each recital with a semicolon (except the last, which ends with a period or introduces the 'NOW, THEREFORE' language), and uses formal language. Modern contracts sometimes omit 'WHEREAS' in favor of a simple 'Background' or 'Recitals' section with plain language. Both approaches work; choose based on formality preferences and industry norms.
Keep recitals factual and avoid overly detailed legal analysis. Recitals should state background facts, not argue positions or make excessive legal representations. Bad recital: 'WHEREAS, Company's software is the industry's best solution with unmatched features.' This is marketing puffery that creates warranty issues. Good recital: 'WHEREAS, Company provides project management software designed for remote team collaboration.' This neutrally states what Company does. Avoid statements that could be construed as representations or warranties unless you intend them. Keep recitals factual, neutral, and context-providing.
What You Get
Professional contract recitals in WHEREAS format
Background and context paragraphs
Formal, professional language
Proper formatting and structure
Ready to insert at contract beginning
How It Works
- 1Provide key factsEnter 3-5 background facts about parties and transaction
- 2AI generates recitalsOur AI creates formal WHEREAS paragraphs in seconds
- 3Insert into contractAdd recitals at beginning before operative provisions
Frequently Asked Questions
Are recitals legally required?
No, recitals are optional. Many contracts omit them entirely and begin directly with definitions or operative provisions. However, recitals serve useful purposes: providing context, aiding interpretation, establishing consideration, and setting tone. For formal or complex agreements, recitals are conventional. For simple, routine contracts, they're often omitted. Use recitals when context adds value, the agreement is formal, or industry practice expects them. Skip them for simple form contracts where context is obvious.
Can recitals create obligations or liability?
Generally no, but be careful. Recitals traditionally state background facts and don't create binding obligations. However, statements in recitals can be construed as representations or warranties, especially if they state facts as definite truths. If a recital says 'WHEREAS, Company owns all intellectual property in the Software' and this is false, it could support breach claims. Avoid stating uncertain facts as definite. Use language like 'represents that' or 'believes that' if appropriate, or move representations to the operative provisions where remedies are clear.
Should recitals be detailed or brief?
Brief. Each recital should state one background fact in one paragraph. A typical contract has 2-5 recitals. Overly detailed recitals become tedious and create more potential interpretation issues than they solve. Focus on essential context: who the parties are, what they do, why they're contracting, and what the contract accomplishes. Avoid unnecessary detail, marketing language, or legal argument. If you need more than 5-6 recitals, consider whether you're including too much detail or whether some facts belong in the operative provisions instead.
What's the difference between traditional and modern recital format?
Traditional format uses 'WHEREAS' at the beginning of each recital, semicolons at the end of each (except the last), and 'NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of...' language transitioning to operative provisions. Modern format might use a 'Recitals' or 'Background' heading with numbered paragraphs in plain language, omitting 'WHEREAS.' Both are acceptable. Traditional format is more formal and common in significant transactions. Modern format is clearer and more readable. Choose based on formality needs, industry practice, and personal preference. Courts don't care which format you use.
Where do recitals go in contracts?
Recitals appear at the beginning of the contract after the title and party identification but before definitions and operative provisions. Typical contract structure: (1) Title, (2) Party identification ('This Agreement is between...'), (3) Recitals, (4) Definitions, (5) Operative provisions, (6) General provisions, (7) Signatures. Some contracts put definitions before recitals. Either order works. The key is that recitals provide context before readers encounter the substantive provisions, helping them understand what follows.
What is River?
River is an AI-powered document editor that helps you write better, faster. With intelligent writing assistance, real-time collaboration, and powerful AI tools, River transforms how professionals create content.
AI-Powered Writing
Get intelligent suggestions and assistance as you write.
Professional Tools
Access specialized tools for any writing task.
Privacy-First
Your documents stay private and secure.
Ready to try Generate contract recitals?
Start using this tool in 60 seconds. No credit card required.
Generate Recitals →