What is a primary requirement for services offered in a compensation agreement?

In a compensation agreement, a primary requirement is that the services must be voluntary for the promisor. This means that the person or entity providing the services does so willingly and with the understanding that they are entering into an agreement to receive compensation in return for their services. The essence of a compensation agreement is based on the mutual consent of both parties, where the promisor agrees to perform a service and expects payment in return.

This voluntary nature emphasizes that there should not be external pressures or legal mandates compelling the service provider to perform the service; rather, it should be a choice made by the promisor. This aligns with principles of contract law, where freedom of choice and consent form the foundation of enforceable agreements.

The other options address misconceptions about the nature of such agreements. For instance, services mandated by law do not fit the notion of a voluntary agreement, and immediate payment does not generally apply to all compensation agreements, which often allow for negotiated terms. Additionally, including a time frame such as "within a year" does not reflect the necessary condition of voluntary service; compensation agreements can span various timeframes depending on the specifics negotiated between the parties involved.