Recent Answers to Release of Liability Law Questions

I recently signed a release of liability form before participating in a recreational activity, and I'm concerned about the legal consequences should I sustain any injuries during the activity. While I understand that such forms are intended to protect the organization or individual organizing the activity, I'd like to know the extent to which signing this form could limit my ability to seek compensation for any harm that may arise from the activity, especially if the organizers were negligent or acted recklessly.

Jeff G.

Answered May 6, 2025

The real answer here is going to depend upon several specifics: the activity, the release document itself, whether you had any negotiation of the document before signature, the actions of the organization/individual who asked you to sign the release, YOUR actions, the location of the activity, etcetera. Long story short, without knowing the specifics, a factual and complete answer is impossible. Sorry!

I recently purchased a property with a large backyard that I plan to use for hosting events and activities. I want to ensure that I am not held responsible for any accidents or injuries that may occur on the premises, so I am considering implementing a release of liability form for all guests to sign. However, I am unsure of the legal effectiveness of such a form and whether it would truly protect me from potential liability claims.

Darryl S.

Answered Jun 14, 2024

Releases of liability are effective if written well and properly. There are also specific laws that protect you in Texas that you may need to be aware of such as the protections provided by signage at a horse facility. Bottom line - you cannot protect yourself from gross negligence or willful misconduct with a release, but standard negligence can be waived by the signature on a release.

I co-signed for my grandson's student loans. He defaulted on the Sallie Mae loans so my credit rating dropped form 825 down to 625! I picked up the payments in order to stop the fall of my credit. He promised to pay but I have not seen a penny. Also I have a parent loan I didn't know about that my daughter signed me up for so I'm paying that. My question is, do I have a leg to stand on with this fiasco. I will mention that I am going on 84 years old on a fixed income so this is a burden especially since the rest of his federal loans will need to be paid starting ion October because the pandemic forgiveness will be stopped.

Angela H.

Answered Jul 11, 2023

Depending on the circumstances, if certain payment requisites have been made, one can petition to have a cosigner released from the account.