Using case law from multiple jurisdictions, Stephen Mason examines the nature and legal bearing of electronic signatures.

Electronic signatures are ubiquitous. Anyone sending an e-mail or using a credit card uses one. They can have a bearing on all areas of law, and no lawyer is immune from having to advise clients about their legal consequences. This third edition provides an exhaustive discussion of what constitutes an electronic signature, the forms an electronic signature can take and the issues relating to evidence, formation of contract and negligence in respect of electronic signatures. Case law from a wide range of common law and civil law jurisdictions is analysed to illustrate how judges have dealt with changes in technology in the past and how the law has adapted in response.

Originally presented as the author's thesis (doctoral)--Freiburg (Breisgau), Universiteat, 2008.

This publication analyses the main legal issues arising out of the use of electronic signatures and authentication methods in international transactions. It provides an overview of methods used for electronic signature and authentication and their legal treatment in various jurisdictions. The study considers the use of these methods in international transactions and identifies the main legal issues related to cross-border recognition of such methods, with a special attention to international use of digital signatures under a Public Key Infrastructure.

The Digital Evidence and Electronic Signature Law Review brings articles, legal developments and case reports to academics, practitioners and the industry in relation to digital evidence and electronic signatures from across the world. The review also seeks to include reports on technical advances and book reviews.

Compares the legislative frameworks in the EU, US, China and International Organisations applicable to e-commerce and highlights the main legal obstacles to the development of electronic contracts and signatures, as well as Internet jurisdiction and online dispute resolutions.