A signature turns words on a page into obligations. Here are the questions worth asking before you commit.
A signature turns words on a page into obligations. Before you sign an agreement — whether it is a service contract, a supply arrangement or a partnership — it is worth slowing down and checking a few important things.
Who are the parties?
Confirm that the names and descriptions of the parties are correct, and that the person signing has the authority to bind the business or organisation they represent.
What exactly are you agreeing to do?
Read the obligations on both sides. Are the deliverables, timelines and standards clearly described? Vague wording is a common source of later disagreement.
What are the payment terms?
Check amounts, due dates, deposits, late-payment consequences and any additional charges.
How can the agreement end?
Look for termination clauses, notice periods and what happens to work in progress or money already paid if the relationship ends.
What happens if there is a dispute?
Some agreements require negotiation or mediation before court proceedings; others specify where or how disputes must be resolved.
Keep a complete, signed copy
Make sure every page and schedule is included and that you keep a copy of the final signed version.
If anything is unclear, obtaining legal advice before signing is usually far simpler and less costly than resolving a problem afterwards. This article is general information and not legal advice for your specific situation.
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes and should not be treated as legal advice for a specific matter.