When parties to an agreement intend it to have legal effect, that agreement is called a contract. In New York, contracts might be oral or written, as long as both parties have the same understanding of the terms of the agreement. In business transactions, written contracts are usually preferred for their reliability. These documents are best drafted by those who understand the law, because the very reason for a contract is to legally obligate the parties.

Negotiating a Contract in West Haverstraw

Negotiation of each particular 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 West Haverstraw contract to give it the desired legal effect. The terms of the contract may be decided based on clear expectations if both parties are upfront about their intentions early on. Also, parties may want to discuss whether they need a provision for resolving any disputes under the contract.

Using a Form Contract

Many West Haverstraw, New York Lawyers use form contracts as a template for any new agreement. The attorney will add or remove contract provisions that the parties want, plus modify the specific language of the form contract to meet the parties' needs. This usually saves all parties time and money. However, form contracts can pose problems if they need to be interpreted by courts, particularly if they are used without the advice of an attorney. First, parties using form contracts often do not read all the clauses, and can therefore be unaware of their obligations under the contract. Second, form contracts often contain language that is particular to the field of law, and using forms without an understanding of this language can cause future disagreements over a contract's meaning. Lawyers can help ensure that a written contract matches the intent of the parties, whether negotiating a contract or using a form. New York contract law is a field in which many West Haverstraw Lawyers have specialized.