The Importance of Having a Lawyer Review Your Contract Before you Sign 

When you are asked to sign a contract, why don’t you have a lawyer review it first?

Contracts contain language that can have substantial repercussions. However, it seems it has become common for people (and sometimes businesses) to sign legal documents without truly knowing the obligations it can potentially create against their interests. 

A client recently hired me for a contract dispute. In the agreement, the client had (unknowingly) agreed to the following:

1. To pay for the other party's legal bill if someone sues them;

2. To arbitrate any dispute, which can be very expensive if not utilized properly, and waive the right to file a lawsuit in court;

3. To file any lawsuit regarding a dispute in another (inconvenient and very far away) state.

Additionally, the language on these important issues were completely one sided and went against the client's interests:

1. When payments were required
2. How the client can get out of the contract
3. When the client can stop payments

When signing a contract, what is the reason you don’t have a lawyer review it first? Is it (1) the cost; (2) because you don’t think it’s necessary; (3) because you don’t know who to hire; or (4) something else?  

The Wannos Law Firm works with clients to review, draft and negotiate employment contracts, including employment agreements, independent contractor agreements, non-compete agreements, confidentiality agreements and non-disparagement agreements. Contact The Wannos Law Firm to schedule a consultation. 

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