Which agreement represents an out-of-court resolution to a legal dispute that is agreed upon in writing by the parties?

A settlement agreement represents an out-of-court resolution to a legal dispute that is mutually agreed upon and documented in writing by the parties involved. This type of agreement typically outlines the terms under which the parties settle their claims, allowing them to avoid the uncertainties and expenses of litigation. Settlement agreements are often reached when parties negotiate terms voluntarily, leading to a resolution that satisfies both sides, thereby creating a binding contract that can be enforced in court if necessary.

Arbitration agreements, while also intended to resolve disputes, typically involve submitting a dispute to a neutral third party for a binding decision, rather than a mutual agreement between the parties themselves. Confidentiality agreements focus on protecting sensitive information rather than resolving a dispute. Release agreements may involve waiving the right to pursue further claims but do not necessarily represent a negotiated resolution to a dispute as a settlement agreement does.