WHAT IS WAIVER

A waiver is a voluntary and intentional relinquishment or abandonment of a known right or privilege. In legal terms, it refers to the intentional surrender of a legal right or claim. By waiving a right, a person or party is choosing not to enforce or exercise that right, either temporarily or permanently.

Key points about waivers include:

  1. Voluntariness: A waiver must be made voluntarily, without coercion or duress. It implies a conscious and intentional decision to give up a right.
  2. Knowledge: The party waiving a right should have a clear understanding of the right being waived and the consequences of doing so.
  3. Specificity: A waiver is often specific to a particular right or situation. It may not necessarily apply broadly to all rights a person may have.
  4. Legal Documents: Waivers are often documented in contracts, agreements, or other legal instruments. These documents may outline the specific rights being waived and the conditions under which the waiver is effective.

Common examples of waivers include:

  • Liability Waivers: Often used in recreational activities, sports events, or certain businesses, where participants agree not to hold the organizer responsible for injuries or damages.
  • Contractual Waivers: Parties in a contract may waive certain contractual rights or obligations by mutual agreement.
  • Waiver of Notice: In legal proceedings or meetings, a person may waive the right to receive formal notice, indicating their willingness to proceed without prior notification.

It’s important to note that while waivers are generally legally binding, there are situations where a waiver may be challenged, especially if it is found to be unconscionable, against public policy, or if there was fraud or misrepresentation involved in obtaining the waiver. Legal advice may be sought to ensure the validity and enforceability of a waiver in a specific situation.