E-Signature News

Latest global legal news on e-signatures, digital contracts, and compliance. Curated by SignatureAPI.

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Mar 3, 2025

Mar 3, 2025

Mar 3, 2025

Israeli Court Recognizes Electronic Promissory Notes

An Israeli court recently issued a landmark ruling recognizing the legal validity of electronic promissory notes, marking a significant step toward digitization in financial transactions. This ruling emphasizes the acceptance of electronic signatures and digital documents under existing legal frameworks. The case addressed concerns about enforceability, highlighting that electronic documents can satisfy formal requirements traditionally reserved for paper-based instruments, according to an article by Ori Rodriguez at Barnea Law Firm.

Feb 26, 2025

Feb 26, 2025

Feb 26, 2025

Texas Court Affirms Emails as Signed Settlement Agreements

A recent appellate decision in Texas has clarified the role of electronic communications in formalizing legal agreements under state law. In Thang, et al v. Defy International, LLC, the Court of Appeals of Texas held that an exchange of emails between attorneys constituted a signed Rule 11 settlement agreement, even in the absence of formally executed documents. The ruling, analyzed in the Digital Transformation: eSignature and ePayment News and Trends newsletter by DLA Piper, underscores the legal significance of typed names and automatic signature blocks in emails, affirming their sufficiency to satisfy signature requirements in certain settlement contexts under Texas law.

Feb 14, 2025

Feb 14, 2025

Feb 14, 2025

Germany Advances Digital Labour Law Reform

Germany has introduced several key updates facilitating the use of electronic signatures and digital formats in labour law contexts, according to an article by Annette Knoth at Gowling WLG. Notably, qualified electronic signatures are now accepted for issuing employee reference letters. Additionally, the reform enables digital communications, such as email, for parental and caregiver leave requests, retirement age contract clauses, and dissemination of working hours regulations, reflecting a broader governmental initiative to digitize employment processes.

Feb 12, 2025

Feb 12, 2025

Feb 12, 2025

Everyday Use of Electronic Documents in Poland

In Poland, electronic signatures are gaining traction alongside traditional written documents. As described in an article by Agnieszka Stawiarska and Klaudia Szatan at Schoenherr, Polish law recognizes different levels of electronic signatures, including the qualified electronic signature (QES), which holds the same legal weight as handwritten signatures. Notably, widely-used electronic signing platforms typically do not provide qualified certificates, limiting their legal status to “document form” rather than fully equivalent written form under Polish law.

Feb 11, 2025

Feb 11, 2025

Feb 11, 2025

Indonesia's New Regulation Expands Bank Services

An article by Assegaf Hamzah & Partners highlights Indonesia’s recent regulatory developments aimed at expanding banking services through digital means, including the use of electronic signatures. The new regulations enable banks to adopt electronic signatures to streamline customer transactions, enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency. This initiative forms part of Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its financial sector and align with international technological practices, underscoring a broader shift toward digitalization in financial services.

Feb 10, 2025

Feb 10, 2025

Feb 10, 2025

Canada Court Recognizes Emoji as Contract Acceptance

In a recent article by Carina Chiu and Katherine Akladios at McMillan LLP, the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal affirmed that a “thumbs-up” emoji could constitute valid acceptance of a contractual agreement, thus meeting signature requirements under the provincial Sale of Goods Act. This case, arising from a commercial dispute involving flax supplies, highlights evolving judicial interpretations of electronic signatures and digital communications in Canadian contract law, particularly regarding the clarity of intent in informal electronic exchanges.

Feb 7, 2025

Feb 7, 2025

Feb 7, 2025

EU-Switzerland Electronic Signature Mutual Recognition

Switzerland and the EU currently lack mutual recognition of qualified electronic signatures (QES), complicating cross-border transactions, according to an article by Härting Rechtsanwälte. To address this, Switzerland’s Federal Council intends to negotiate with the EU, aiming for mutual recognition between Swiss ZertES legislation and the EU’s eIDAS regulation. Such alignment would facilitate smoother digital transactions and enhance legal certainty in electronic communications across jurisdictions.

Jan 8, 2025

Jan 8, 2025

Jan 8, 2025

Signing Transaction Documents in the UK: Legal Considerations

This article by Brodies LLP addresses the legal considerations involved in signing transaction documents when selling a company in the UK, highlighting differences between Scots and English law. It specifically outlines the execution requirements for contracts, including situations where electronic signatures might be used, compared to traditional “wet ink” signatures. The discussion emphasizes ensuring legal validity during this crucial phase of a corporate transaction, reflecting the increasing adoption and acceptance of electronic signatures in commercial practice.

Jan 4, 2025

Jan 4, 2025

Jan 4, 2025

Illinois Amends Biometric Privacy Act to Recognize Electronic Signatures

Illinois updated its Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), explicitly allowing electronic signatures as valid forms of written consent for the collection or sharing of biometric data, as discussed in an article by Torsten M. Kracht at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP. The amendment addresses business concerns about liability by limiting violations to one per individual, irrespective of repeated biometric scans. However, the law’s applicability to past incidents remains uncertain.

Dec 11, 2024

Dec 11, 2024

Dec 11, 2024

Thailand Releases Draft of Amended Electronic Transactions Act

Thailand has released a draft amendment of its Electronic Transactions Act (ETA), initially enacted in 2001, aiming to modernize and address existing enforcement limitations. According to an article by Tilleke & Gibbins, the revised ETA proposes significant changes, including updated definitions, the introduction of trust-mark certification for electronic transaction service providers, clearer rules for electronic transferable instruments, and enhanced reliability standards for electronic transactions.

Dec 6, 2024

Dec 6, 2024

Dec 6, 2024

Romania Digitalizes Shareholders’ Meetings Under Amended Companies Law

Romania recently amended its Companies Law to allow digital participation in shareholders’ meetings, reflecting an increasing global trend toward corporate digitalization. This legislative update also acknowledges the validity of electronic signatures in shareholder interactions, enhancing efficiency and accessibility. The changes, discussed in an article by CMS Law-Now, align Romania with other European jurisdictions that have embraced electronic procedures, significantly influencing corporate governance and shareholder engagement practices across the country.

Nov 6, 2024

Nov 6, 2024

Nov 6, 2024

Digital vs. Electronic Signatures in Colombia

Electronic signatures and digital signatures are distinct concepts under Colombian law, each with specific technological and legal implications. According to an article by Edwin Cortés and Anna Catalina Pérez at Holland & Knight, digital signatures require certification from an accredited entity, ensuring a higher security standard. In contrast, electronic signatures are broader, encompassing various forms of signature technology, including simple actions like pasting an image of a signature into a document. Understanding these differences is crucial given the increasing reliance on digital interactions.

Oct 24, 2024

Oct 24, 2024

Oct 24, 2024

FDA Finalizes Part 11 Electronic Signature Guidance for US Clinical Investigations

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently finalized updated guidance addressing the use of electronic signatures and records in clinical investigations, as detailed in an article by Cooley LLP. This guidance clarifies compliance requirements for electronic records and signatures, reflecting technological advancements and increased reliance on digital health tools. The FDA’s updated approach includes considerations for international studies and emphasizes the integrity and accountability of electronic data.

Sep 6, 2024

Sep 6, 2024

Sep 6, 2024

Thailand Issues ETDA Guidelines for Electronic Transactions

Thailand’s Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) recently published guidelines designed to standardize electronic transactions and electronic contracts (e-Contracts). According to an article by Panisa Suwanmatajarn at The Legal Co., Ltd., these guidelines clarify the processes for creating, maintaining, and converting electronic contracts, specifically highlighting acceptable practices for electronic signatures and seals. The guidelines aim to ensure the reliability, accessibility, and legal validity of e-Contracts in compliance with Thailand’s Electronic Transactions law, reflecting growing technological adoption within commercial transactions.

Aug 26, 2024

Aug 26, 2024

Aug 26, 2024

Argentina Updates Digital Signature Regulations

Argentina recently issued Decree 743/2024, modifying the country’s digital signature regulations, according to an article by Damaso Pardo at Bruchou & Funes de Rioja. The decree adjusts procedures for issuing, renewing, and revoking digital certificates, notably removing the previous requirement of physical presence at a Registration Authority. The changes are part of Argentina’s broader efforts to modernize state administration, emphasizing transparency, administrative efficiency, and wider digital access.

Aug 20, 2024

Aug 20, 2024

Aug 20, 2024

Germany Proposes Easing Written Form for Commercial Leases

Germany is considering significant reforms to its written form requirement for commercial lease agreements, according to an article by Dr. Jan Gernoth and Dr. Johanna Mayer at Paul Hastings LLP. Currently, German law mandates handwritten signatures on commercial leases exceeding one year, making electronic signatures insufficient in practice. The government’s proposed legislation aims to permit electronic documents, such as emails or digitally signed PDFs, simplifying lease transactions and reducing bureaucratic burdens, although specific risks remain regarding document completeness.

May 23, 2024

May 23, 2024

May 23, 2024

CJEU Clarifies Electronic Signatures' Probative Value in the EU

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) recently addressed critical questions regarding the legal effect and probative value of electronic signatures in judicial proceedings, according to an article by Filip & Company. Specifically, the Court interpreted Regulation No 910/2014 (eIDAS), clarifying that national courts cannot dismiss electronic signatures’ validity solely due to their electronic form, emphasizing the equivalence between qualified electronic signatures and traditional handwritten signatures under EU law.

Apr 24, 2024

Apr 24, 2024

Apr 24, 2024

Modernizing E-signature Laws in India

India’s electronic signature regulations, originally established under the Information Technology Act, 2000, are under review as the country aims to advance its digital economy. According to an article by Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co., ongoing revisions through the proposed Digital India Act seek to align India’s e-signature framework with current technological capabilities and international practices. This modernization initiative addresses legal gaps, promotes broader electronic contract use, and supports the government’s vision for expanded digital transactions, reflecting India’s increased reliance on electronic authentication methods.

Mar 25, 2024

Mar 25, 2024

Mar 25, 2024

EPO to Accept Electronic Signatures from April 2024

From April 1, 2024, the European Patent Office (EPO) will accept electronic and digital signatures for assignments and declarations, significantly changing its longstanding practice of requiring wet-ink signatures. According to an article by Michael Nielsen at Berggren, electronic signatures, including simple text strings, will be valid, provided certain basic criteria, such as legibility and secure electronic filing, are met. However, existing signature requirements, including mutual signatures for assignments, remain unchanged.

Mar 22, 2024

Mar 22, 2024

Mar 22, 2024

USPTO Adopts Electronic Signature Rules for Patent Correspondence (US)

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has updated its signature requirements to allow electronic signatures for patent-related documents, as detailed in an article by the Patent and Trademark Office at Federal Register. The rule specifies criteria for the acceptance of electronic signatures, aiming to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and ensure security in patent correspondence. The rule became effective on March 22, 2024, reflecting broader trends in digital transformation within legal and governmental procedures.

Mar 14, 2024

Mar 14, 2024

Mar 14, 2024

Understanding Electronic Signatures in France

Electronic signatures have become increasingly important in legal practices, particularly in France, where their validity and use are governed by specific regulations. An article by DSM Avocats à la Cour examines the legal framework surrounding electronic signatures, highlighting essential requirements for compliance, security measures, and varying levels of legal assurance recognized under French law. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for legal professionals who handle digital documentation, as electronic signatures continue to shape contract management and authentication practices within France’s digital transformation in the legal sector.

Mar 2, 2024

Mar 2, 2024

Mar 2, 2024

Vietnam's Law on E-Transaction 2023 and Individual Electronic Signatures

Vietnam’s Law on E-Transactions 2023 introduces important changes concerning electronic signatures used by individuals, as discussed in an article by Trinh Phuong Thao at Venture North Law. The new regulation classifies electronic signatures into categories such as specialized signatures and public digital signatures, potentially limiting personal self-generated methods. Additionally, verification processes like OTPs and scanned signatures receive new legal interpretations, impacting how individuals may legally execute electronic transactions in Vietnam.

Feb 22, 2024

Feb 22, 2024

Feb 22, 2024

Best Practices for Electronic Signatures in US Digital Transformation

Electronic signatures play a critical role in digital transformation efforts, offering efficiency but also requiring careful legal consideration. An article by Margo Tank, Vinny Sanchez, Elizabeth Caires, and Emily Honsa Hicks at DLA Piper outlines key best practices to manage the associated legal risks, emphasizing compliance with relevant US laws such as the ESIGN Act and UETA. The authors highlight the importance of contractual clarity and regulatory awareness for businesses navigating electronic signatures within their broader digital strategies.

Feb 15, 2024

Feb 15, 2024

Feb 15, 2024

Transitioning to eSignatures for Employment Documents in Central Europe

Electronic signatures have become an essential component in the digital transformation of HR processes across Central Europe, driven by remote work trends intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. As discussed in an article by Deloitte, organizations are increasingly adopting eSignatures for employment documents to streamline operations, enhance flexibility, and maintain legal compliance. The shift represents a broader global movement towards digital solutions, impacting how employers manage document workflows and employee relations.

Feb 9, 2024

Feb 9, 2024

Feb 9, 2024

EPO Revises Rule 22 EPC for Electronic Signatures in Europe

The European Patent Office (EPO) recently updated Rule 22 of the European Patent Convention (EPC) regarding electronic signatures. According to an article by the European Patent Office, the revised rule outlines the conditions and validity criteria for electronic signatures on official patent documents. This change reflects the EPO’s ongoing adaptation to digital processes, aiming to streamline procedures for patent applicants and legal practitioners throughout Europe. The notice provides clarity on compliance requirements without altering substantive legal provisions.

Feb 5, 2024

Feb 5, 2024

Feb 5, 2024

Electronic Signatures in German Rental Agreements

Electronic signatures are increasingly common in German rental agreements, raising important questions about their legal validity and practical use. An article by Jörg Simon and Janett Pöhlmann at McDermott Will & Emery addresses key legal considerations surrounding electronic signatures in tenancy law. The authors discuss the requirements under German law for electronic signatures to be legally binding in rental agreements, highlighting potential pitfalls and practical recommendations for proper implementation in contractual practices.

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e-signature superpowers

© Signature API, Inc. All rights reserved.

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e-signature superpowers

© Signature API, Inc. All rights reserved.