Stiles vs. Davis & Barton was a case heard before the United States Supreme Court in 1861. The dispute arose when two individuals, Stiles and Davis & Barton, both claimed ownership of certain property located in the state of Virginia. Stiles argued that he had purchased the land from its original owner while Davis & Barton contended that they held title to it due to an earlier deed issued by another individual who had previously owned it. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court determined that Stiles did indeed have superior rights to the property as his purchase predated any other claim made on it. As such, they ruled in favor of him and ordered Davis & Barton to relinquish their claim over it so that he could take possession without further delay or interference.

In Stiles v. Davis & Barton, the Supreme Court was asked to decide whether a contract between two parties for the sale of land in Virginia was valid and enforceable under state law. The majority opinion held that it was not, as there were certain formalities required by Virginia law which had not been followed. Justice Nelson dissented from this decision, arguing that even though some of the formalities had not been observed, they were merely directory and did not affect the validity or enforceability of the contract itself. He further argued that if these requirements were strictly enforced then it would be impossible for any contracts made outside of court to be legally binding in Virginia since few people would know all of them or take steps to ensure compliance with each one. Therefore he concluded that while such requirements should generally be followed where possible, their violation should only invalidate a contract when it is clear beyond doubt that they are essential elements necessary for its formation and enforcement