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 Minnesota, 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 involving personal injury, property damage, or other claims of harm or loss. The party that is potentially liable (the released party) typically offers compensation or another form of consideration, such as an apology, to the party that has been harmed (the releasing party). In exchange, the releasing party agrees not to pursue any further legal action related to the incident. It is important for such agreements to be clear, specific, and entered into voluntarily by all parties. Minnesota law requires that the terms of the release are fair and that the releasing party is fully informed of their rights. If a release agreement is part of a settlement during or after litigation, it may require court approval to ensure that it is just and equitable to all parties involved.