I am new to freelancing and I have my first few lined up jobs now comes the fun part.

 

I got a accountant to help me with taxes, but, should I get a lawyer or not?

 

I live in PA in the united states and I want to know what it takes to make a contract that keeps ME AND the customer safe from being scammed.

 

Help/links/general guidance?

 

Thank you

I'm not sure you really need the expense of a lawyer.

 

I'm based in the UK, my contract is a simple three page affair, simple, to the point and easy to read and in plain English. It's pretty air tight and keeps both sides happy. I'm sure some expensive picky lawyer could find something wrong with it, but it works perfectly for me and I'm happy with it.

 

I do make alterations to it from time to time depending on the client.

 

Obviously the law in the UK is different to the US, but I'm sure you'll find a bundle of resources out there on the net.

Getting a lawyer - never thought of that, but would be a good idea sometimes

 

Just make sure you're very clear what the client will be getting - I've made the mistake of being too general in the past and it just causes pain every time. Be as specific and anal as possible - it's the easiest way. E.g. if you say you'll be doing SEO on a website say specifically what SEO you'll include - so maybe just onsite SEO, updating title tags and up one other internal page.

 

 

Ok thanks! Any links to like a template or such?

 

http://www.zenfulcreations.com/resources/worksheets/design_contract.htm

 

This a good template to start with?

Edited September 4, 201114 yr by Afterlyfe