A Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreement is a legally binding contract commonly used in California to protect one party from any future claims or lawsuits arising from an activity involving potential risks or liabilities. It is often utilized in situations where someone is allowing another person to participate in an activity, event, or experience that may involve inherent dangers. The purpose of this agreement is to release the party responsible for organizing or providing the activity, often referred to as the "releaser" or "indemnity," from any liability for any injuries, damages, or losses that the other party, known as the "released" or "indemnity," may suffer during or as a result of the activity. In California, there are different types of Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreements depending on the specific situation: 1. General Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreement: This is the most common type used in various circumstances where the released voluntarily agrees not to hold the releaser liable for any claims or damages arising from the activity. It provides a broad release of all potential claims and is often used for recreational activities like sports, fitness classes, adventure sports, or even attending events. 2. Medical Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreement: This type of agreement specifically targets activities or services involving medical or healthcare procedures, such as clinical trials, experimental treatments, or medical research studies. It outlines the released's understanding and acceptance of any potential risks and absolves the releaser, including the medical professionals, from any claims or liabilities arising from the agreed-upon procedures. 3. Parental or Guardian Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreement: This agreement is tailored for situations where a minor is involved in an activity that carries some level of risk or liability, and the parent or legal guardian is giving consent on behalf of the minor. It ensures that the parent or guardian acknowledges and accepts the inherent hazards of the activity on behalf of the minor and waives any future claims against the releaser. 4. Employment Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreement: This agreement is formulated between an employer and an employee when certain job responsibilities might expose the employee to risks or dangers. It releases the employer from any liability for injuries, damages, or losses suffered by the employee and acknowledges the understanding and acceptance of the associated risks. In conclusion, a California Surrogate Release and Hold Harmless Agreement is a legally binding document used to protect the releaser from future claims or lawsuits arising from an activity involving potential risks or liabilities. Different types of agreements are tailored based on various scenarios, such as general activities, medical procedures, parental consent, or employment-related situations.