A settlement agreement is always in writing, and both parties must agree to the provisions in the settlement agreement. Also, both parties must sign the settlement agreement for it to be legally binding. A settlement agreement will resolve a civil lawsuit.
Settlement agreements are contracts. Although the law presumes that settlement agreements are valid, they generally are subject to contract defenses, including mistake, unconscionability, duress, undue influence, and fraud.
At the outset of settlement negotiations, list all individuals and entities—both for the plaintiff and the defendant—that the agreement will cover. ✔ List all legal issues to be settled. List all claims your adversary may legally release via settlement. Verify the agreement covers these claims.
What Should Be Included in a Settlement Agreement? Identifying information for all involved parties. A description of the issue you're seeking to settle. An offer of resolutions that both parties agree to. Proof of valid consideration from both parties without coercion or duress. Legal purpose.
The settlement shall be in writing and signed by both parties. Upon filing of the settlement with the court, the judge shall review the settlement and may enter it as the judgment of the court or may require that a full hearing take place.
Make sure the settlement agreement: is in writing. covers the specific dispute you're having. is made by a lawyer who's independent of your employer. gives the name of that lawyer. sets out what you and your employer agree to do. says that the agreement meets the rules about settlement agreements.