This form brings together several boilerplate contract clauses that work together to outline the laws that will govern all or parts of the contract and to determine the legal forum or jurisdiction for any claims that may arise under the contract agreement.
Washington Putting It All Together — Governing Law and Jurisdiction Provisions refer to a set of legal provisions that determine which laws will govern and which courts will have jurisdiction over a particular legal matter in the state of Washington. These provisions play a crucial role in contracts, agreements, and legal disputes to ensure clarity and fairness in the resolution process. In Washington, there are primarily two types of governing law and jurisdiction provisions: choice of law clauses and forum selection clauses. Choice of Law Clauses: A choice of law clause allows parties to specify which jurisdiction's laws will govern their agreement or dispute. By including this provision, the parties can ensure that the laws they desire will apply, regardless of their physical location. For example, if two parties based in Washington wish to govern their contract under the laws of the state of California, they would incorporate a choice of law clause stating so in their agreement. Forum Selection Clauses: A forum selection clause determines the specific court or jurisdiction where any legal disputes arising from the agreement will be litigated. It provides certainty and predictability for the parties involved, eliminating the potential for a "forum shopping" scenario. For instance, parties involved in a contract may choose to designate the state or federal courts in Washington as the exclusive forum for any legal action arising from their agreement. Combining these provisions in a Washington Putting It All Together provision ensures that the agreement's interpretation and resolution of disputes occur under a specified set of laws in a designated jurisdiction. This clarity minimizes confusion, streamlines the resolution process, and allows for efficient legal proceedings. These provisions are essential to protect the rights and expectations of the parties involved and provide a fair and predictable framework for resolving legal matters. When drafting contracts or agreements in Washington, it is crucial to consider including these provisions to establish a comprehensive and enforceable legal foundation. In summary, Washington Putting It All Together — Governing Law and Jurisdiction Provisions allow parties to specify which laws will govern their agreement and which courts will have jurisdiction over any related legal disputes. By incorporating choice of law and forum selection clauses, parties can achieve clarity, predictability, and fairness in their legal relationships within the state.
