When parties to an agreement intend it to have legal effect, that agreement is called a contract. In Ohio, 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 Reading
There is more to a contract than what is required for it to be valid in Reading. The particular terms of the contract should all be discussed separately so that the intent of each party is understood by the other. 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
Using a form contract as a baseline for your agreement may save you time. Lawyers practicing Ohio law in Reading can be helpful in selecting the right form, and can also revise the contract to make it the best fit for your distinct situation. There are risks in using form contracts without the advice of an attorney. First, a party using a form contract may not have completely read all the terms, and can thereby remain unaware of his performance obligations and liabilities if events do not go as planned. Second, the challenging language used in the field of contracts can make agreements written by others challenging to understand. An attorney can ensure that a written contract matches the intent of the parties, both with form contracts and in negotiations. In Reading, many Lawyers specialize in Ohio contract law.