Why You Should Always Read the Contract
As a freelancer, your contract is your only legal protection. Without a clear agreement, you risk:
- Not getting paid on time (or at all)
- Getting asked to do more work than agreed
- Losing rights to your own work
Here’s a quick checklist of what to look for — plus how you can use AI to simplify the legal jargon.
1. Scope of Work
Make sure it clearly defines what you’re expected to deliver. Vague language like “as needed” or “to be determined” opens the door to scope creep.
Red flag: No specific deliverables or deadlines.
2. Payment Terms
How much you’ll get paid, and when. Is it per project, per hour, or per milestone? Check for:
- Net 30 vs Net 15 vs “upon completion”
- Late payment fees
- Deposit requirements
3. Intellectual Property (IP) Rights
Does the client own the work after payment, or do you retain rights? Some contracts may assign all rights even if you haven’t been paid yet.
Tip: Look for words like “work for hire” or “assignment of rights”.
4. Termination Clause
Can the client cancel the contract mid-project? Are you owed payment for work completed? A missing or unfair clause could leave you with nothing.
5. Confidentiality & Non-Compete
A confidentiality clause is normal — but watch out for overly broad non-compete terms that prevent you from working in your field.
6. Revision Policy
Some clients will ask for unlimited changes unless the contract limits them. Make sure your time is protected.
Safe standard: 1–2 rounds of revisions, with extra rounds billed hourly.
7. Dispute Resolution
If there’s a disagreement, where and how is it handled? Arbitration clauses may limit your ability to sue — check the “jurisdiction” too.
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Final Thought
Freelance freedom is great — but don’t let it come at the cost of unclear or risky agreements. Before you sign anything, read it carefully or simplify it with AI.
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