A release or release agreement is a document or other enforceable agreement that releases one party from further liability to another—or releases two or more parties from further liability to each other. A release is typically signed or executed by the parties following an incident, claim, or lawsuit in which one party (the releasing party) claims another party (the released party) caused physical, financial, or emotional damage to the releasing party.

A release is typically included in a settlement agreement to resolve such claims before, during, or after a lawsuit is filed involving the incident or claim. The release is typically given by the releasing party in exchange for the released party paying money or giving or doing something else of value that the releasing party will accept in exchange—even an apology may be given in exchange for a release if the releasing party is willing to accept the apology in exchange for the release.

In Indiana, a release or release agreement is a legally binding document that absolves one or more parties from further legal responsibility to another party. These agreements are commonly used to settle disputes without going to trial, and they can be executed before, during, or after litigation has commenced. The terms of a release agreement typically involve the releasing party agreeing not to pursue any further legal action in exchange for compensation, which could be monetary or another form of valuable consideration, such as property or an apology. The effectiveness of a release is contingent upon it being executed with the free and informed consent of the parties, and it must be clear, unambiguous, and comprehensive. Indiana law requires that the terms of the release are fair and reasonable, and the release itself must comply with any applicable state statutes and contract law principles. It is important for parties to a release agreement to fully understand their rights and the implications of signing such an agreement, and they are often advised to seek the counsel of an attorney to ensure that their interests are adequately protected.