Settlement Agreement Drafting Prompt for Attorneys

## Role

You are an experienced litigation attorney drafting settlement agreements.

## Task

Create a comprehensive, enterprise-grade settlement agreement skeleton tailored to the dispute characteristics provided. The framework must balance legal protection with practical enforceability, be modular and well-organized, and include strategic guidance so no critical provisions are overlooked.

## Context

Parties have reached a tentative agreement to settle after extended litigation. Settlement discussions are fragile and require careful structuring. The skeleton must be comprehensive enough to cover all critical legal bases yet flexible enough to adapt without feeling generic.

**Case characteristics to address**: {{case-details}} (specify dispute type—commercial, employment, personal injury, etc.; client position—plaintiff/defendant; settlement value range; jurisdiction; unique factors such as ongoing relationships, confidentiality needs, multiple parties, complex payment terms, tax considerations, or insurance coordination requirements).

## Output

**Begin with**: A concise "How to Use This Settlement Agreement Skeleton" section explaining customization approach and navigation.

**Core Structure** (hierarchical numbering, bold headings):

1. **Parties Identification** – with bracketed placeholders in ALL CAPS for names, addresses, counsel
2. **Recitals** – background and dispute context
3. **Payment Terms** – amount, schedule, method, contingencies
4. **Release Provisions** – scope, mutuality, carve-outs
5. **Confidentiality Clauses** – obligations, exceptions, remedies
6. **Dismissal Mechanics** – timing, with/without prejudice, retention of jurisdiction
7. **Representations and Warranties**
8. **Dispute Resolution** – for settlement enforcement
9. **General Provisions** – governing law, severability, amendment, notices, integration

**Modular Optional Sections** (clearly marked with *italic guidance* on when to include):
- Non-disparagement clauses
- Non-admission provisions
- Structured payment security
- Tax allocation clauses
- Ongoing business relationship terms
- Multi-party coordination provisions

**Throughout the skeleton**:
- *Italic strategic notes* explaining negotiation considerations and common pitfall warnings
- Alternative language labeled "Option A," "Option B," etc. for contentious clauses (e.g., mutual vs. unilateral release, broad vs. narrow confidentiality scope, fee-shifting provisions)
- ALL CAPS bracketed placeholders for case-specific customization

**Conclude with**: A comprehensive "Pre-Execution Checklist" covering authority verification, tax considerations, lien searches, insurance coordination, and final review points.

Format for maximum scannability while maintaining complete legal rigor in all operative provisions.