What is a Subscriber Agreement? A Comprehensive Legal Overview
Definition & meaning
A subscriber agreement is a legally binding document that allows an individual to provide their consent electronically, typically through an electronic signature. This agreement is essential for establishing the terms under which a service or product is provided to the subscriber. It is important to retain this agreement for a minimum of five years after the electronic signature device used to sign it has been deactivated.
Table of content
Everything you need for legal paperwork
Access 85,000+ trusted legal forms and simple tools to fill, manage, and organize your documents.
Subscriber agreements are commonly used in various legal contexts, particularly in consumer law and contract law. These agreements are crucial for businesses that offer services or products online, as they establish the rights and responsibilities of both the service provider and the subscriber. Users can often manage their own subscriber agreements using legal templates provided by services like US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.
Key Legal Elements
Real-World Examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A software company requires users to sign a subscriber agreement before they can access their services. The agreement includes terms of use and privacy policies.
Example 2: An online magazine offers subscriptions that require users to sign a subscriber agreement electronically. This agreement details the subscription terms and cancellation policy. (hypothetical example)
Relevant Laws & Statutes
Subscriber agreements are governed by various laws, including the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN) and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). These laws establish the validity of electronic signatures and the enforceability of electronic agreements.
State-by-State Differences
State
Key Differences
California
Strict regulations on electronic signatures, requiring clear consent.
New York
Allows electronic agreements but emphasizes the need for clear terms.
Texas
Recognizes electronic signatures but requires specific disclosures in certain agreements.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Common Misunderstandings
What to Do If This Term Applies to You
If you are entering into a subscriber agreement, ensure you understand the terms outlined in the document. Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates that can guide you through the process. If you have questions or if the situation is complex, it may be wise to seek legal advice from a qualified attorney.
Quick Facts
Attribute
Details
Typical retention period
Five years after deactivation of the signature device
Jurisdiction
Varies by state
Common penalties for non-compliance
Potential legal disputes or unenforceability of the agreement
Key Takeaways
FAQs
An electronic signature is a digital representation of a person's intent to agree to the terms of a document.
Yes, when properly executed, subscriber agreements are enforceable in a court of law.
You must retain the agreement for five years after the electronic signature device is deactivated.
