Settlement Agreement Drafting Issues Checklist

Summary

This settlement agreement drafting issues checklist outlines the key issues to consider when entering into a settlement agreement. A settlement agreement is a contract that is entered into by parties wishing to settle a civil dispute and release any claims they may have against each other. These agreements can be drafted and executed by one party or on a mutual basis. A settlement may be reached at any time, including prior to the filing of a lawsuit up until the eve of trial. Parties can reach a settlement with or without the help of a private mediator and/or in-house or outside counsel. Once the parties agree on the terms of a settlement, their respective attorneys should promptly memorialize the agreement in writing.