Law of Contract: Common law principles governing formation and enforcement of contracts, including offer, acceptance, consideration, and intention to create legal relations
Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999: Legislation governing how third parties may enforce terms of a contract and the circumstances under which they may be entitled to benefits
Civil Liability Act 1978: Legislation governing civil liability and contribution between parties, relevant for release agreements and settlements
Limitation Act 1980: Sets statutory time limits for bringing different types of legal claims, crucial for understanding what claims can be validly released
Employment Rights Act 1996: If employment-related, governs basic employment rights and the framework for employment relationships
Equality Act 2010: Prohibits discrimination and protects equality rights; certain rights cannot be waived in a release agreement
ACAS Code of Practice: Provides guidance on employment dispute resolution and settlement agreements
Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977: Restricts how far civil liability for breach of contract can be avoided using contract terms
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Protects consumer rights and regulates unfair terms in consumer contracts if one party is acting as a consumer
Misrepresentation Act 1967: Governs remedies for misrepresentation in contract formation, relevant for ensuring validity of the release
Civil Procedure Rules: Rules governing civil litigation in England and Wales, relevant for dispute resolution provisions
Arbitration Act 1996: Framework for arbitration as an alternative dispute resolution method
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000: Regulatory framework for financial services sector if the release involves regulated financial activities
