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What does an assumption of risk clause actually cover?

I am using an assumption of risk clause in my contracts to protect myself from any lawsuit in connection with me providing weight management services to clients. I want to be sure it is understood there are no health claims, no guarantee of results and no reason to sue me for damages or health related issues.

Answer

An assumption of risk clause covers the known and expected risks of your services that clients agree to accept. It shows that clients understand there are uncertainties—like no guaranteed results—and take responsibility for those risks.

It can help reduce claims tied to normal outcomes, such as lack of results or general health risks. However, it does not prevent lawsuits and does not eliminate all liability.

What risks does this clause usually cover?

The clause typically covers risks that are inherent to the service and it doesn't replace professional or regulatory obligations. In your case, this may include no guaranteed weight loss results, individual health responses, or outcomes that vary from person to person.

It can also support your position that you are not making specific health claims and that clients are choosing to participate with full awareness of the risks.

What are the limits of this protection?

An assumption of risk clause generally does not protect against negligence, misconduct, or failure to meet a reasonable standard of care.

It also cannot prevent someone from filing a lawsuit. It only helps define responsibility and may reduce liability if the issue falls within the accepted risks.

What to do next...

  1. Clearly describe the risks and lack of guaranteed results.
  2. Avoid making promises or health claims in your contract.
  3. Use simple, easy-to-understand language.
  4. Make sure clients review and agree before starting services.

What to consider in your specific situation

While assumption of risk clauses can help, their effectiveness depends on your services and how they are presented.

  • The type of weight management services you provide.
  • The clarity of your "no guarantee" and risk language.
  • Whether any health-related claims are implied or stated.
  • Local laws on liability waivers and health services.
  • How clients acknowledge and accept the risks.
  • The seriousness of potential health-related outcomes.

A clear, well-structured clause can help set expectations and reduce disputes, but it works best alongside careful communication and consistent practices. Since every situation is different, consider more information through Rocket Copilot, a Legal Pro, or a legal document review to move forward with confidence.

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Pro Reviewed
Published on 04/19/2026
Reviewed by Pamela K. Streng, Esq.

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Please note: This page offers general legal information, but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask an Attorney.

Laura Bojart
Laura Bojart
Editorial Researcher and Copywriter

Laura Bojart is an SEO copywriter and editor at Rocket Lawyer. She researches legal and business topics and translates complex ideas into clear, practical content for everyday readers. With her background in journalism and endless curiosity, she approaches each subject by asking the questions readers are likely to have first, making legal information approachable and easy to understand even to those with no legal background.

Discover more articles: FAQs about Risk and Liability Clauses