Why bother with a written contract?
Jan 19, 2018
Why do you have terms of business? Why bother documenting your privacy policy on your website? Why bother recording any kind of contract terms?
Why do you have terms of business? Why bother documenting your privacy policy on your website? Why bother recording any kind of contract terms?
I practice commercial law and therefore in learning about my clients’ businesses and their objectives when instructing me. I also practice commercial dispute resolution. I therefore see some of the catastrophic effects of absence of planning and documenting arrangements within businesses and between businesses and between businesses and their customers. It is, therefore, easy for me to see the value in preparing a written contract and I know that if some of those who come to see me when I’m wearing my ‘litigation hat ‘had the opportunity again, they would certainly document their arrangements in written contracts and be careful in considering the contents of those contracts. Unfortunately, many corners are cut and I see the false economy of saving a small investment at the beginning of the business journey and the sometimes catastrophic consequences and crippling expense of disputes and litigation can occur as a result of this.
The purpose of involving a solicitor in recording agreements between businesses or in drafting terms and policies for your website or contracts between parties within the business is to try and achieve as much certainty as possible. It tends to be uncertainty and misunderstanding (sometimes very genuine misunderstanding) that leads to disputes and the fallout from them.
I respectfully suggest that the money that you might spend to have a solicitor receive your instructions, understand your objectives and deliver a document that delivers a far greater degree of certainty, is money well spent. On the other hand, you could just take your chances.
E: kh@walkerfoster.com or
T: 01756 700200
Caring for a loved one and dealing with legal responsibilities calls for clear, careful guidance. Many people ask: does power of attorney end at death? The straightforward answer is yes.
Many people wonder, can an executor be a beneficiary? The short answer is yes. It is a very common scenario when creating a Will.
Walker Foster discusses the upcoming changes to lasting power of attorney (LPA) registration fees. Find out more and set up an LPA today.
Who can override a power of attorney? UK estate planning law experts Walker Foster Solicitors explain how POAs can protect your assets.


Craven House, Newtown, Barnoldswick, BB18 5UQ
First Floor, 7 Victoria Avenue, Harrogate, HG1 1EQ
27 Riddings Road, Ilkley, LS29 9LX
Century House, Northallerton, DL6 2XQ
1 High Street, Settle, BD24 9EX
63 Kirkgate, Silsden, Keighley, BD20 0PB
3 High Street, Skipton, BD23 1AA