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Where to find an example of a good contract?

by danstelter
10 replies
Hi all,

I just got into copywriting/article writing and I've been going by the seat of my pants for the time being. I would like to become more professional, and need to know where I could find an example of a good contract. I've asked for 1/3-1/2 up front from multiple people and gotten it, but we really signed no contract. Where could I find a good contract that would protect me legally? And, are there any contracts that hold up for international work? Thanks in advance for your help,

Dan
#contract #find #good
  • Profile picture of the author Mike Schwenk
    Hey Dan,

    Bob Bly has quite a few relevant products, one of which is:

    Copywriter?s Toolkit; A Ready-to use Copywriting Forms, Checklist, Model Contracts, Boiler agreements and Sales Letters

    Going by what you've said you need, that should get you sorted...


    -Mike
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  • Profile picture of the author Derek Pankaew
    Most of the time a handshake agreement or email outlining the terms of an agreement is enough. I've never used a contract.
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    • Profile picture of the author Christian Chan
      Originally Posted by Derek Pankaew View Post

      Most of the time a handshake agreement or email outlining the terms of an agreement is enough. I've never used a contract.
      You never get screwed before. Contract is good for a reason.
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  • Profile picture of the author Derek Pankaew
    What good's a contract gonna do you if you get screwed? Are you going to spend $25,000 in lawyer fees to enforce the contract? Or spend 40 hours of your time in small claims court?

    No. Usually, if they're going to screw you over they're gonna do it with or without a contract. Instead, just work with people you trust and have clear agreements beforehand. With people who're worth their word, a handshake or an email is enough.
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    • Profile picture of the author Alex Cohen
      Originally Posted by Derek Pankaew View Post

      What good's a contract gonna do you if you get screwed? Are you going to spend $25,000 in lawyer fees to enforce the contract? Or spend 40 hours of your time in small claims court?

      No. Usually, if they're going to screw you over they're gonna do it with or without a contract. Instead, just work with people you trust and have clear agreements beforehand. With people who're worth their word, a handshake or an email is enough.
      You're wrong Derek.

      Having a signed contract can do a lot of good. If the client doesn't pay, hand the matter off to a collection attorney in the city where the client lives. They're happy to work on contingency.

      They usually charge 33% if the client pays without court. 50% otherwise.

      67% or 50% is better than nothing, right?

      Been there, done that.

      Alex
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  • Profile picture of the author Derek Pankaew
    Hmm - Cool. I stand corrected.
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  • Profile picture of the author ThomasOMalley
    Buy Slaunwhite's How To Start and Run A Copywriting Business. It has a good contract in it.
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