Start with the business relationship
Contracts should match the commercial reality behind the deal. A vendor agreement, partnership document, or service contract may look routine, but a few provisions often determine how expensive a disagreement becomes.
Indemnity and limitation of liability
Indemnity language can shift substantial risk from one party to another. Limitation clauses may cap damages, exclude consequential losses, or create exceptions that deserve careful review.
Renewal and termination rights
Automatic renewal provisions can be useful, but they can also trap a business in unfavorable terms. Termination rights should be clear, realistic, and consistent with operational needs.
Dispute provisions
Venue, governing law, arbitration, fee shifting, and notice requirements affect leverage if the relationship breaks down. These terms should be reviewed before a dispute exists.
