This electronic signature policy sets forth guidelines for a company to allow its employees to substitute an electronic signature (e-signature) on agreements instead of a manual (handwritten) signature to the extent permitted by applicable law. The policy is jurisdiction and industry neutral. This template includes practical guidance and drafting notes. Electronic signatures serve to facilitate more secure and expeditious document signing. Pursuant to the United States Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act of 2000 (15 USC ยงยง 7001-7006), a contract or signature "may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form." There are a few exceptions, however, that must be signed manually, including: (1) wills, testamentary trusts, and codicils; (2) agreements governed by laws respecting adoption, divorce, or other family law matters; (3) agreements governed by the UCC, except those governed by any of the following ...