Why You Should Get it in Writing
Clear written agreements are essential for protecting your business and avoiding misunderstandings.
These may be the four most important words for an entrepreneur or small-business owner who often operates on a “handshake” principle: Get it in writing.
The challenge and excitement of starting a new business can lead to entering business agreements haphazardly or with the complete trust of the other party, especially if it is with a family member. Your business contracts should be in writing and protect your own business interests first.
Business agreements and contracts provide the details of the expectations of each party. When everyone understands their responsibilities and the consequences of not following through, any problems that arise can be handled more easily.
The reason that verbal contracts can cause problems is that parties change, memory fades, and details get fuzzy. Without a written agreement, a judge or jury will have a hard time determining which party is right. It becomes a “he said/she said” scenario. A well-written business agreement or contract with parties that you do business with i.e. customers, suppliers, contractors, partners, shareholders, co-members of an LLC, and investors, is a basic best business practice and one that you should not ignore.
“Get it in writing” may be the best business advice you can receive, but also keep in mind that just writing down an agreement is not the same as having an enforceable contract to protect your business. That is why it is important to seek an experienced attorney’s advice when entering into a business agreement. It is well worth the investment as the cost of misunderstandings or disputes could be much more costly in the long run.
At Assertion Law Firm LLC and 417 Business & Elder Law, we are well-versed in state law and can provide you with the expertise to create and review your business agreements for the basic requirements and ensure that the specific legal issues that impact your individual business are addressed.
Please call our office at (888) 887-4170 if you have any questions about this article.
Clear written agreements are essential for protecting your business and avoiding misunderstandings.
