waiver
Definition
A waiver is when someone voluntarily gives up a legal right they would otherwise have. For example, if a customer signs a waiver before using your trampoline park, they are agreeing to give up their right to sue you if they get hurt during normal use. Courts take waivers seriously, but they won't always hold up if the waiver was poorly written or if your business was grossly negligent.
Example
You own a pottery class studio and have customers sign a waiver acknowledging the risk of minor burns from the kiln, which protects you from routine injury claims. Without that signed waiver, an injured customer has a much easier path to suing you.
Watch Out
A waiver you found online or wrote yourself may have gaps that make it unenforceable, so always have an attorney review it before you rely on it for protection.
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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.