Abstract: A quick release latching mechanism is provided for restraining a handset of a telephone set. Easily adaptable to fit most existing telephone sets with minimal modifications, the latching mechanism is also easily manufactured, yet satisfies existing safety requirements by being able to restrain the handset during harsh operating conditions. The handset is securely restrained in the handset cradle of a telephone set base by a floating toggle type latch which is balanced around its pivot point and is the only moving part in the quick release latching mechanism. A coil spring is provided to return this latch to its closed position. Any shock forces encountered by the latch are not absorbed or counterbalanced by the spring force since these shock forces are applied in a direction normal to the force exerted by the spring. The spring force, therefore, does not secure the latch in the closed position. Rathr it simply serves to return the latch to this position when the latch is permitted to move freely.