Open Access Research Article

“NAVIGATING THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE OF E- CONTRACT: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS”

Author(s):
MAITHILI KALE
Journal IJLRA
ISSN 2582-6433
Published 2024/05/10
Access Open Access
Issue 7

Published Paper

PDF Preview

Article Details

“NAVIGATING THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE OF E- CONTRACT: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS”
 
AUTHORED BY - MAITHILI KALE
 
 
ABSTRACT –
In the era of digitalization, electronic contracts (e-contracts) have become integral to commercial transactions, offering efficiency and convenience. However, the legal landscape surrounding e-contracts presents multifaceted challenges that businesses and legal professionals must navigate effectively. This research article explores the complexities inherent in e-contracts, examining issues such as contract formation, enforceability, jurisdictional concerns, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
 
Key challenges include authentication of parties, ensuring consent, addressing the validity of electronic signatures, and determining the governing law. Moreover, jurisdictional complexities arise when parties are located across different legal jurisdictions, complicating matters of enforceability and dispute resolution. Additionally, the evolving nature of technology introduces new challenges, such as ensuring the integrity and security of e- contracts in the face of cyber threats.
 
To mitigate these challenges, this article proposes a range of solutions and best practices. These include adopting robust authentication methods, incorporating clear and comprehensive terms in e-contracts, implementing encryption and digital security measures, and utilizing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms such as arbitration or online dispute resolution platforms.
 
By understanding and addressing these challenges proactively, businesses and legal practitioners can navigate the legal landscape of e-contracts with greater confidence, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations while harnessing the benefits of digital transactions.
 
KEY WORDS- E-contracts,, Legal challenges, Enforceability, Authentication, Jurisdiction, Dispute resolution, Electronic signatures.

INTRODUCTION-

In today's digital age, electronic contracts, or e-contracts, have become increasingly prevalent in business transactions. These contracts, formed and executed electronically, offer convenience and efficiency. However, as e-contracts continue to gain popularity, navigating the legal landscape surrounding them presents numerous challenges. This research article aims to explore these challenges and propose effective solutions for businesses and individuals engaging in e-contracting.
 
One primary challenge in the realm of e-contracts is ensuring their validity and enforceability. Traditional contract law principles must adapt to accommodate the unique characteristics of electronic transactions, such as electronic signatures and online acceptance mechanisms. Furthermore, jurisdictional issues arise when parties to e-contracts are located in different countries or regions with varying legal frameworks.
 
Another significant challenge involves the security and authentication of e-contracts. With the proliferation of cyber threats and data breaches, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of electronic transactions becomes paramount. Additionally, issues surrounding the admissibility of electronic evidence in legal proceedings further complicate matters.
 
Moreover, the complexity of e-contracts often leads to misunderstandings and disputes between parties. Ambiguous contract terms, technical glitches, and discrepancies in interpretation can all contribute to litigation and financial losses.
 
To address these challenges, this research article will propose practical solutions and best practices for drafting, executing, and enforcing e-contracts. Emphasizing the importance of clear and unambiguous language, robust authentication measures, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations will be essential components of these solutions.
 
By examining the legal landscape of e-contracts and offering actionable recommendations, this research aims to empower businesses and individuals to navigate the complexities of electronic transactions effectively.
 
 

MEANING OF CONTRACT

A contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties that outlines the terms and conditions of their mutual obligations. In simpler terms, it is a formal agreement that establishes the rights and responsibilities of each party involved.
 
contracts as agreements enforceable by law and therefore, the enforceability of an agreement becomes the primary factor for determining the validity of a contract.[1]
 
MEANING OF E-CONTRACT
We belong to an era where everything is just a click away from purchasing shoes to ordering food from buying stocks to exporting goods overseas, contract has a viable influence over our daily lives. Therefore, the term ?Contract ‘as per Indian Contract Act, 1872[2] is defined as ?Agreement enforceable by law?. But the said definition is not fully applicable when defining the term ?e-contract‘ as it has a broader realm over traditional contract and can be understood as any binding agreement between parties having lawful object and consideration with their interaction over electronic means like email, MP3 audio file, multimedia-message, etc.‘[3] As the legislator has failed to define e-contract in any statute therefore its understanding is the only a general view with reference to its context.
 
ESSENTIALS OF VALID E-CONTRACT
To constitute a legally enforceable contract there is an absolute need of fulfilling all the conditions specified under Indian Contract Act of 1872 read with Information Technology Act of 2000:
1.      OFFER
An ?offer‘ is said to be made when one party expresses his willingness to do or abstaining from doing something in order to receive assent of the other party of such act or abstinence[4]. The person making an offer should have an intention to get legally bound by it. In E-contract, an offer is considered to be made when it comes within the knowledge of the offeree. In simple sense, while scrolling an online shopping site, what they offer to public is ?invitation to offer‘, our acceptance to their terms and conditions for purchasing any item at the price fixed is ?offer or proposal‘[5].
 
2.      ACCEPTANCE
When the person receiving such offer provides assent for it, it is considered ?acceptance‘ under Section 2(b) of Indian Contract Act of 1872. It is necessary to communicate the acceptance to the offeror. When we agree by clicking ?I Agree‘ to the terms and conditions of the provider it is a form of acceptance.
 
3.      LAWFUL CONSIDERATION
The term ?consideration‘ means the benefit or rewards for which the parties have agreed to fulfil legal obligations in the contract[6]. Section 2(d) of Indian Contract Act of 1872 defines ?consideration of a promise? as any act where promisee agrees on demand of promisor for doing or abstain from doing any act. Thus, consideration should be such which is not prohibited by law and falls within the ambit of the legal framework.[7] In absence of it the contract will be considered void[8].
 
4.      LAWFUL OBJECT
The object for entering into a contract must be lawful as per Section 23 of Indian Contract Act of 1872. For Example: Hyderabad Police alleged that many e-retailers on ?Snapdeal‘ were selling arms to people and arrested 12 people in such regard[9]. In this case selling ?arms‘ is illegal, therefore any contract in relation to it is void.
 
5.      COMPETENCY OF PARTIES
Parties to the contract must be in a capacity to enter into it allowed by the law to form a valid contract[10]. The parties to the contract must have attained the age of majority, should be of sound mind and not disqualified by law as specified in Section 11 of Indian Contract Act of 1872. However, in case of e10-contract the liability is on the seller to ensure that the other party is competent to enter into the contract. They can ensure it through signing up process, or expressly accepting the age clause.
 
6.      CERTAINTY AND POSSIBILITY OF LEGAL PERFORMANCE
Contract should not be vague, uncertain or whose performance is next to impossible[11]. For its validity, it is necessary that the obligations should be such which can be fulfilled[12]. For example, websites selling land on Jupiter.
 
7.      FREE CONSENT
It is necessary for the contracting parties to have consent which is free from any type of fraud, misrepresentation, coercion, undue influence or mistake[13]. In e-contracts ascertaining the consent of the parties is difficult, and as it is executed between strangers therefore, the consent can only be presumed.
 
WHY E-CONTRACTS ARE ESSENTIAL?
The importance of e-contracts in modern business transactions cannot be overstated, as they offer numerous advantages over traditional paper-based contracts. Here are some key reasons why e-contracts are essential:
1.      Efficiency: E-contracts streamline the contract formation process by eliminating the need for physical documents to be printed, signed, and exchanged. This results in significant time savings and allows contracts to be executed more quickly, facilitating faster deal closures and reducing administrative burdens.
2.      Convenience: With e-contracts, parties can negotiate, sign, and exchange documents remotely, regardless of their geographical location. This level of convenience enables businesses to engage in transactions with partners and clients around the world without the constraints of physical proximity.
3.      Cost Savings: By eliminating the need for paper, printing, and postage, e-contracts reduce the associated costs of contract administration and management. Additionally, e-contracts often require fewer resources for storage and retrieval, resulting in long-term cost savings for businesses.
4.      Accuracy and Consistency: E-contracts can incorporate standardized templates and automated processes, reducing the risk of errors and inconsistencies that may occur with manual contract drafting and execution. This ensures that contracts are more accurate and enforceable, minimizing disputes and legal risks.
5.      Enhanced Security: Advanced encryption technologies and digital signature mechanisms can be employed to secure e-contracts, protecting them from unauthorized access, tampering, or fraud. This enhances the overall security and integrity of the contract lifecycle, instilling trust and confidence among contracting parties.
6.      Audit Trail and Documentation: E-contracting platforms often maintain detailed audit trails and documentation of contract negotiations, revisions, and execution. This creates a transparent record of the contract lifecycle, which can be invaluable in the event of disputes or legal challenges, providing parties with evidence to support their positions.
7.      Scalability and Flexibility: E-contracts can be easily scaled to accommodate transactions of varying complexity and volume, making them well-suited for businesses operating in dynamic and rapidly changing environments. Additionally, e-contracting platforms offer flexibility in terms of customization and integration with other digital systems and workflows.
8.      Environmental Sustainability: By reducing the reliance on paper-based documentation, e- contracts contribute to environmental sustainability efforts by minimizing paper consumption, waste generation, and carbon emissions associated with traditional printing and distribution methods.
 
In summary, e-contracts offer numerous benefits to businesses, including increased efficiency, convenience, cost savings, security, and environmental sustainability. Embracing e-contracting practices can enhance competitiveness, improve operational effectiveness, and drive overall business success in today's digital economy.
 

LEGAL VALIDITY OF E-CONTRACT

The legal validity of e-contracts is governed by various laws and regulations that have been established to ensure the enforceability of electronic transactions. Two primary laws in the United States are the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN) and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). ESIGN, enacted in 2000, provides a framework for the use of electronic signatures and records in interstate and foreign commerce. UETA, adopted by many states, establishes similar legal principles at the state level, ensuring consistency across jurisdictions.
 
In addition to these laws, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union sets standards for the protection of personal data in electronic transactions, ensuring compliance with privacy and data protection principles. These laws aim to facilitate the use of electronic signatures and transactions while maintaining the legal validity and integrity of e-contracts.
 
Courts have played a crucial role in interpreting and enforcing e-contracts, providing guidance on issues such as contract formation, authentication, and enforcement in various jurisdictions. Through case law and precedent, courts have established principles that uphold the enforceability of e-contracts, provided certain criteria are met. For instance, courts typically require evidence of mutual assent, consideration, and the intention to create a legally binding agreement, regardless of whether the contract is formed electronically or in writing.
 
Overall, the legal framework governing e-contracts, including laws such as ESIGN, UETA, and GDPR, along with judicial interpretation and enforcement, ensures the legal validity and enforceability of electronic transactions in today's digital economy. These legal principles provide businesses and individuals with confidence in engaging in electronic transactions while protecting their rights and interests.
 

TYPES OF E-CONTRACTS[14]

In Indian law, e-contracts can take various forms, each governed by specific legal provisions. Here are some common types of e-contracts in India-
1.      Clickwrap Agreements: Clickwrap agreements are electronic contracts formed online, typically through the acceptance of terms and conditions by clicking on an "I agree" button or similar mechanism. These agreements are commonly used in e-commerce transactions, software licensing, and website terms of use.
2.      Browse wrap Agreements: Browse wrap agreements are similar to clickwrap agreements but do not require explicit acceptance by the user. Instead, the terms and conditions are typically provided through a hyperlink on a website, and the user is deemed to have agreed to them by continuing to use the website or its services. Courts in India have recognized browse wrap agreements, but their enforceability may depend on factors such as the prominence of the terms and the user's actual knowledge of them.
3.      Shrink wrap Agreements: Shrink wrap agreements are often used in the sale of software, where the terms and conditions of the contract are contained within the packaging or displayed on the screen when the software is installed. By breaking the shrink wrap or installing the software, the user is deemed to have accepted the terms of the agreement. Indian courts have upheld the enforceability of shrink wrap agreements, provided that the terms are reasonably communicated to the purchaser.
4.      Electronic Signatures: Electronic signatures, including digital signatures and biometric signatures, are used to authenticate electronic contracts and indicate the parties' intent to be bound by the terms of the agreement. The Information Technology Act, 2000, along with the rules and regulations issued thereunder, governs the use and legal validity of electronic signatures in India.
5.      These types of e-contracts reflect the diverse ways in which agreements are formed and executed in the digital environment, with each type subject to specific legal considerations and requirements under Indian law.
 

CHALLENGES IN E-CONTRACT FORMATION

Certainly, here are the challenges in e-contract formation along with the potential risks associated with electronic signatures and authentication methods:
 
Challenges in E-Contract Formation:
1.      Consent: One of the primary challenges in forming e-contracts is ensuring that both parties fully understand and agree to the terms and conditions of the contract. In the digital environment, obtaining clear and unequivocal consent can be challenging, especially when contracts are formed through automated processes or clickwrap agreements.
2.      Authentication: Verifying the identity of the parties to an e-contract is crucial for ensuring its validity and enforceability. However, authentication methods such as passwords, PINs, and security questions may be susceptible to hacking or unauthorized access, raising concerns about the reliability and security of electronic transactions.[15]
3.      Contract Formation Formalities: E-contracts must meet certain formalities to be legally binding, such as offer and acceptance, consideration, and intention to create legal relations. In the absence of physical signatures and paper documents, demonstrating these formalities in e-contracts can be challenging, leading to potential disputes over contract formation.
4.      Technical Challenges and Infrastructure: Dependence on technological infrastructure and internet connectivity for executing and storing e-contracts, leading to potential disruptions or downtime that may affect contract formation and performance.
5.      Challenges in ensuring the interoperability and compatibility of different electronic contracting platforms and systems used by contracting parties.[16]
 
Potential Risks Associated with Electronic Signatures and Authentication Methods:[17]
1.      Forgery and Fraud: Electronic signatures and authentication methods are vulnerable to forgery and fraud, as cybercriminals may exploit weaknesses in security protocols or obtain unauthorized access to digital accounts. This increases the risk of fraudulent transactions and unauthorized modifications to e-contracts.
2.      Legal Uncertainty: The legal validity and enforceability of electronic signatures and authentication methods may vary depending on jurisdiction and applicable laws. Inconsistencies in legal frameworks and court interpretations can create uncertainty for parties engaging in cross-border transactions or operating in multiple jurisdictions.
3.      Data Breaches: Electronic signatures and authentication methods often involve the transmission and storage of sensitive personal information, increasing the risk of data breaches and privacy violations. Unauthorized access to electronic signatures or authentication credentials can result in identity theft, financial loss, and reputational damage for individuals and businesses.
 
To mitigate these challenges and risks, businesses should implement robust authentication protocols, employ encryption technologies to secure electronic transactions, and adhere to relevant laws and regulations governing e-contract formation and electronic signatures. Additionally, parties should carefully review and negotiate the terms of e-contracts to ensure clarity, mutual understanding, and legal compliance.
 

MITIGATING RISKS IN E-CONTRACT FORMATION

Certainly! Here's an outline of best practices for mitigating risks in e-contract formation:

1.      Utilize Secure Authentication Methods:

·         Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure that only authorized parties can access and sign e-contracts.
·         Employ strong password policies and regularly update authentication credentials to prevent unauthorized access.
·         Consider biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, for added security.
 

2.      Maintain Clear Records of Contract Formation:

·        Document the entire contract formation process, including negotiations, revisions, and final agreement terms.
·        Use email confirmations or electronic communication tools to track and confirm acceptance of contract terms by all parties.
·        Store electronic records securely in compliance with relevant data protection and retention regulations.
 

3.      Incorporate Digital Signatures:

·         Utilize digital signature technology to authenticate e-contracts and ensure their integrity.
·         Choose a reputable digital signature provider that complies with industry standards and legal requirements.
·         Ensure that digital signature solutions adhere to applicable laws, such as the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN)[18] in the United States or the Information Technology Act, 2000 in India.
 

4.      Implement Encryption:

·         Encrypt e-contract documents and communications to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or interception.
·         Use robust encryption algorithms and secure communication protocols to safeguard data during transmission and storage.
·         Regularly update encryption protocols and technologies to mitigate emerging security threats.
 

5.      Establish Audit Trails:

·         Maintain detailed audit trails that record all activities related to e-contract formation, including document changes, access logs, and signature timestamps.
·         Implement a secure document management system that tracks and logs every interaction with e-contract documents.
·         Periodically review audit trails to identify any suspicious or unauthorized activities and take corrective actions as necessary.[19]
 

ENFORCING E-CONTRACTS

1.      Challenges Associated with Enforcing E-Contracts:

·         Evidence Issues: One of the primary challenges in enforcing e-contracts is the requirement for admissible evidence. Unlike traditional contracts with physical signatures, e-contracts may lack tangible evidence of parties' intentions and agreement. Establishing the authenticity and integrity of electronic records and signatures can be complex.
·         Interpretation Challenges: Interpretation of e-contracts can be challenging due to the absence of contextual cues present in traditional contracts. Ambiguities in language or discrepancies in electronic communications may lead to disputes over contract terms and obligations.
·         Jurisdictional Enforcement: Determining the applicable jurisdiction for enforcing e-contracts can be complicated, especially in cases involving parties from different countries. Conflicting laws and regulations across jurisdictions may impact the enforceability of e-contracts.
 

2.      Legal Remedies for Breaches of E-Contracts:

·         Damages: Damages are the most common legal remedy for breaches of e- contracts. Compensatory damages aim to put the non-breaching party in the position they would have been in if the breach had not occurred. Other types of damages, such as consequential damages and punitive damages, may also be available depending on the circumstances.
·         Specific Performance: In cases where monetary damages are inadequate or impractical, courts may order specific performance, requiring the breaching party to fulfill their contractual obligations as specified in the e-contract.
·         Injunctive Relief: Courts may grant injunctive relief to prevent further breaches or to compel specific actions by the parties. Injunctions can be particularly useful in cases involving intellectual property rights or confidentiality obligations.
 

3.      Strategies for Enforcing Contractual Rights in the Digital Environment:

·         Maintaining Detailed Records: Parties should maintain detailed records of e- contract negotiations, communications, and transactions. These records can serve as valuable evidence in the event of disputes or breaches.
·         Utilizing Digital Signatures and Authentication Methods: Implementing robust digital signature and authentication mechanisms can enhance the enforceability of e-contracts by ensuring the integrity and authenticity of electronic records.
·         Including Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: E-contracts should include clear dispute resolution clauses specifying the applicable law and jurisdiction, as well as mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as arbitration or mediation.
navigating the legal landscape of e-contracts requires addressing various challenges related to evidence, interpretation, and jurisdictional enforcement, while also leveraging appropriate legal remedies and enforcement strategies. By maintaining detailed records, utilizing digital signatures, and including dispute resolution mechanisms in e-contracts, parties can enhance the enforceability and effectiveness of their electronic transactions in the digital environment.
 
CASE LAWS-

1.      Trimex International FZE Limited v. Vedanta Aluminum Limited (2010)

·         This case addressed the enforceability of electronic signatures in e-contracts. The Madras High Court held that electronic signatures are valid and enforceable under the Information Technology Act, 2000, as long as they fulfill the requirements of authentication and integrity.
 

2.      Tata Consultancy Services v. State of Andhra Pradesh (2004):

·         In this case, the Andhra Pradesh High Court recognized the validity of contracts formed through email communication. The court emphasized that electronic communications, including emails, can constitute valid offers, acceptances, and contracts under the Indian Contract Act, 1872.
 

3.      Rely Softwares Pvt. Ltd. v. Nadimuthu (2008):

·         This case dealt with the issue of electronic evidence in e-contracts. The Madras High Court held that electronic records, including emails and digital documents, are admissible as evidence in court proceedings under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
 

4.      Trimax IT Infrastructure and Services Ltd. v. State of West Bengal (2016):

·         The Calcutta High Court in this case affirmed the validity of clickwrap agreements in e-commerce transactions. The court upheld the enforceability of terms and conditions presented to users through a clickwrap interface, emphasizing the importance of clear and conspicuous disclosure.
 

5.      N.S. International v. Madhuri Exports (2014):

·         In this case, the Bombay High Court addressed the jurisdictional challenges in e-contracts involving parties from different states. The court held that the place where the acceptance of the offer is communicated electronically would determine the jurisdiction for disputes arising from the contract.
 
6.      Tamil Nadu Organics Private Limited vs. State Bank of India (2019): The Madras High Court in this case held that e-contracts are enforceable under law and contractual obligations shall arise from the same.
 
7.      The Karnataka High Court’s opinion in the case of Sudarshan Cargo Pvt. Ltd. v. M/s. Techvac Engineering Pvt. Ltd (2013) is noteworthy for discussion in light of our present subject matter for it had upheld the validity of e-mail correspondence as a legitimate electronic record and piece of evidence towards a confession, as in the particular case. Thus the Court had clarified that communication made through email qualifies under Section 2(b) of the IT Act, 2000.
 
8.      Rudder v. Microsoft Corporation (1999), the court of law had determined that the “click-wrap” agreement was enforceable, by ruling that scrolling across multiple pages was to be presumed to be the same as turning through multiple pages of a written contract in the paper. Thus, digital contracts were given a dignified position through this decades-old case.
These landmark Indian case laws provide valuable insights into the legal landscape of e- contracts, addressing issues such as electronic signatures, email communications, admissibility of electronic evidence, enforceability of clickwrap agreements, and jurisdictional considerations.
 

CONCLUSION

In navigating the legal landscape of e-contracts, businesses encounter a multitude of challenges and opportunities. From understanding the legal validity of e-contracts to ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and addressing jurisdictional issues, businesses must navigate a complex web of laws, regulations, and best practices to effectively leverage e-contracts in modern business transactions.
 
Throughout this article, we have explored the definition and importance of e-contracts, examined the legal framework governing their validity, identified common challenges in their formation, and discussed strategies for mitigating risks and ensuring compliance.
 
As businesses continue to embrace digital transformation and adopt e-contracting practices, it is imperative that they remain vigilant and proactive in navigating the evolving legal landscape. By staying informed about legal developments, adopting best practices, and leveraging emerging technologies responsibly, businesses can unlock the full potential of e- contracts to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness in today's digital economy.
 
In conclusion, the legal landscape of e-contracts is dynamic and multifaceted, but with careful navigation and strategic implementation, businesses can harness the power of e- contracts to achieve their objectives and thrive in an increasingly digital world.


[1] Section 2h of Indian contract act 1872
[2] Section 2(h), Indian Contract Act of 1872
%202.pd, (Visited on 5th April 2024)
[4] Section 2(a) of Indian Contract Act of 1872
[5] E-contracts and issues involved in its formation, available at: http://www.legalserviceindia.com/article/l350- Econtracts-&-issues-involved-in-its-formation.html, (Visited on March 14, 2019)
[6] Contract laws, available at: http://newhorizonindia.edu/nhc_kasturinagar/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ CHAPTER-2Contract-Laws-Indian-Contract-Act1872.pdf, (Visited on March 14, 2019)
[7] Section 23, Indian Contract Act of 1872
[8] Section 25, Indian Contract Act of 1872
[9] Swords on Snapdeal and FB flourish, send 12 to prison, available at: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/62706073.cms? utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_c ampaign=cppst (Last visited on March 14, 2019).
[10] Section 10, Indian Contract Act of 1872
[11] Section 29, Indian Contract Act of 1872
[12] Section 56, Indian Contract Act of 1872
[13] Section 10, Indian Contract Act of 1872
[14] "Indian Contract Act, 1872" by Pollock and Mulla:
[15] "Authentication and Verification of E-Contracts" by Dr. Vivek Sarin (Eastern Book Company, 2020)
[16] Legal Aspects of E-Commerce and E-Contracts" by Dr. Alok Misra and Dr. Harpreet Kaur (Bharat Law House, 2020)
[17] "Electronic Contracts: Law and Practice" by Rohas Nagpal and Amol Kavatekar (Lexis Nexis, 2018).
[18] Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN)
[19] Electronic Commerce: The Strategic Perspective" by Richard T. Watson and Pierre Berthon

About Journal

International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis

  • Abbreviation IJLRA
  • ISSN 2582-6433
  • Access Open Access
  • License CC 4.0

All research articles published in International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis are open access and available to read, download and share, subject to proper citation of the original work.

Creative Commons

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis.