When a contract gets the point of a dispute it can be costly and time consuming to resolve. Fortunately, we have complied a list of 5 top tips to keep in mind to avoid these disputes arising in the future.
1. Understand the agreement
This includes reading the agreement in full and understanding every part of the agreement before signing it. The part you don’t understand may just be the part they catch you on later. Check that you have been given all the additional documents that might accompany the contract. If any points in the contract are not clear, seek clarification from the drafter or seek your own independent advice. Make sure any clarifications you get are in writing.
2. Be clear
Regardless of your relationship and trust in the other party, no one can know what will happen in the future. To protect yourself, make sure the agreement is written down in clear and simple language that everyone understands. If the agreement does result in litigation, the clause will be interpreted against the person seeking to rely on it.
3. Control the quality
If you are receiving goods make sure you are clear on your expectations on the quality of the goods. You may want to include provisions allowing for the inspection of the goods before fees are paid.
4. Deal with any issue quickly and calmly
Dealing with disputes is never the easiest thing. However, if an issue can be dealt with without escalation it is important to take that step.
5. Talk to a solicitor
A solicitor with expertise in contracts and contract litigation will be able to help you craft your contract to protect you and your relationship with the other party. A contract litigation solicitor will also be able to help you when you do run into problems.
