Drafting Airtight Contracts: Best Practices to Minimize Future Disputes

From small, local companies to large, multinational organizations, contracts are the backbone of every business transaction. Well-written agreements can result in long-term, fruitful relationships – while badly worded contracts almost always lead to arguments, separations, or lawsuits. 

 

So, what steps can you take to ensure your contracts fall into the former category, not the latter? How can you draft an agreement that will minimize your chances of getting into a dispute? 

 

Here’s what the skilled business litigation lawyers at The Frazer Firm recommend:  

 

Define All Terms Precisely 

 

Ambiguity in contract language is a breeding ground for disputes. Clearly define all terms, especially industry-specific jargon, to eliminate any room for interpretation. This clarity will reduce the risk of lawsuits or arguments arising from misunderstandings. 

 

Specify Each Party’s Obligations and Responsibilities 

 

Leave no room for doubt about what each party is responsible for. Spell out duties, deadlines, and performance expectations in detail. Doing so will prevent future disagreements over who should do what. 

 

Address Termination and Breach 

 

Clearly outline the circumstances under which the agreement can be terminated as well as the consequences of a breach of contract. Doing so will ensure all parties understand the potential repercussions of bad faith actions. 

 

Be Specific About Payment Terms 

 

Money matters can quickly lead to heated disputes. Specify payment terms, including amounts, due dates, and methods of payment. Consider late fees and interest rates to incentivize prompt payment. Detail the consequences of a failure to make scheduled payments. 

 

Address Force Majeure 

 

Incorporate a force majeure clause to account for unforeseen events like natural disasters or pandemics. Clearly outline how these events will affect the contract and the parties’ obligations. 

 

Specify Governing Law and Jurisdiction 

 

Clearly state which laws will govern the contract and where disputes will be resolved. Doing so will minimize confusion and ensure that all parties know which legal framework applies. 

 

Seek Legal Counsel 

 

Before signing any agreement, it is always a good idea to consult with an experienced attorney. Their expertise can help you identify potential pitfalls and ensure compliance with relevant laws. 

 

Experienced Business Lawyers in Jupiter, Florida 

 

Do you need a knowledgeable attorney to draft or review a contract for your Florida business? If so, please don’t hesitate to reach out to The Frazer Firm by calling (561) 295-1551. We’ve been local companies to avoid contract disputes for years, and we would love to do the same for you!