When parties to an agreement intend it to have legal effect, that agreement is called a contract. In Missouri, contracts may be oral or written, as long as both parties have the same understanding of the terms of the agreement. Most businesses want to solidify their agreements in writing so that they can rely on them in the future. Since many legal principles may be involved, drafting a contract works best when done with as much knowledge of the law as possible.

Negotiating a Contract in Richmond Heights

Negotiation of each specific term in a contract is important to ensure that the intent of each party is met. Also, there are certain clauses that should be included in every Richmond Heights contract to give it the desired legal effect. Stating intentions clearly in the early stages of negotiations can lead to a contract that includes clearer terms. To conclude, the contracts that are easiest to enforce have clauses that determine how to handle disputes.

Using a Form Contract

Form contracts can serve as a good starting point for a sound agreement. Attorneys in Richmond Heights, Missouri often keep past contracts on file, and can add or remove provisions based on the situation. They can also reword the specific language of form contracts to make them more clear. There are risks in using form contracts without the help of an attorney. First, form contracts have the tendency to go unread. Any party who does not carefully review all the contract terms can be left unaware of their obligations under the contract. Second, using a contract that someone else has written can obligate the parties to a contract term that they do not understand. Whether you decide to negotiate a contract or use a form contract, an attorney will be able to help you ensure that the written instrument matches your intent. Many lawyers practicing in Richmond Heights are experts of Missouri contract law.