Contracts and Letters of Intent

Do I need a contract with my writing clients? Is it something I can generate myself or do I need to pay a lawyer?

Yes, you need some sort of written agreement, but it usually doesn’t make sense to hire a lawyer unless the contract involves a huge amount of money.

I use a letter of intent that I usually draft myself. It includes the goal or purpose of the project, spells out how we will proceed, details how I will get paid and provides a way for either me or the client to cancel if the wheels come off. It also provides a way to change the agreement if that becomes necessary.

My goal is to make sure the client and I actually agree on what I’m to do and how it’s to get done. It serves as a basis for resolving any confusions or even disputes. If the project is a short one, there’s rarely any need to refer to the agreement, but if the project is a long one, like a book, memories tend to fade as time passes. The letter of intent gives us a way to get back on track.

Sample Letter Of Intent.

Write well and often,

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