Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999: Governs how third parties may enforce terms of a contract and their rights, which is crucial for release agreements that might affect rights of parties not directly involved in the settlement
Limitation Act 1980: Sets out the time limits within which different types of legal claims must be brought, affecting the validity and scope of the release
Civil Procedure Rules - Part 36: Regulates formal offers to settle and their consequences, including costs implications and court procedures
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Relevant if the claim involves consumer matters, protecting consumer rights and regulating unfair terms in consumer contracts
Employment Rights Act 1996: Essential for employment-related settlements, governing statutory rights and requirements for valid settlement agreements
Misrepresentation Act 1967: Addresses false statements made during contract formation, relevant for ensuring the validity of the settlement agreement
Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977: Regulates terms that exclude or restrict liability, ensuring the release terms are fair and enforceable
Common Law Principles of Contract Formation: Fundamental principles regarding offer, acceptance, consideration, and intention to create legal relations
Without Prejudice Save As To Costs Principle: Legal principle protecting settlement negotiations from being used as evidence in court, except for costs considerations
Capacity to Contract Principles: Legal requirements regarding parties' mental capacity and authority to enter into binding agreements
