Waiver

A waiver refers to the voluntary relinquishment or abandonment of a right or claim by one party. It is a common legal term that holds significant importance in commercial contracts. This article will provide a concise overview of the definition of waiver, offer a couple of examples of how it is handled in commercial contracts, and highlight the key elements to consider while drafting a waiver clause.

Waiver Definition:

In the context of contracts, a waiver is an intentional act by which a party voluntarily gives up a right or claim. It is typically expressed in writing or through the conduct of the party. A waiver can be temporary or permanent, and it often requires consideration (i.e., something of value exchanged between the parties).

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Example of Waiver in Contracts:

Example 1: Employment Contract

In an employment contract, an employer may include a waiver clause stating that any failure to enforce a particular provision or policy does not constitute a waiver of the right to enforce it later. For instance, if an employer neglects to enforce a strict dress code policy on a single occasion, it does not automatically mean that the employer has waived the right to enforce the policy in the future.

Example 2: Lease Agreement

In a lease agreement, a landlord may include a waiver clause specifying that failure to enforce certain terms or conditions, such as late rent payments, does not constitute a waiver of the right to enforce those provisions in subsequent instances. This clause ensures that the landlord retains the ability to enforce the terms of the lease consistently.

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Key Elements in the Waiver Clause:

When drafting a waiver clause in a contract, the following key elements should be considered:

1. Clear and Unambiguous Language: The waiver provision should be clearly written, leaving no room for confusion or ambiguity. Parties should explicitly state which rights or claims they intend to waive.

2. Intent and Voluntary Act: A waiver must be an intentional and voluntary act by the party giving up the right. It should not be coerced or obtained through fraudulent means.

3. Consideration: In some jurisdictions, a waiver may require consideration, meaning that something of value must be exchanged between the parties for the waiver to be valid. This can be in the form of a payment or some other benefit.

4. Scope and Duration: The waiver clause should specify the scope and duration of the waiver. It may be limited to a particular provision or extend to all rights and claims under the contract. The duration can be permanent or temporary, depending on the parties' intentions.

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How to manage clauses like these effectively?

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