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 Michigan, 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. The party that signs the release (the releasing party) agrees not to pursue any further legal action against the party being released (the released party), often in exchange for compensation, which could be monetary or another form of valuable consideration, such as property or an apology. The terms of the release are critical and must be clear and unequivocal to be enforceable. Michigan law requires that the parties entering into a release agreement do so knowingly and voluntarily, and the agreement must be supported by adequate consideration. It is important to note that certain claims may not be releasable by law, and specific statutory requirements may apply to the enforceability of release agreements, such as those involving consumer protection or employment. An attorney can provide guidance on the drafting and enforceability of release agreements in Michigan to ensure they comply with state statutes and federal law.