Most business litigation starts with one thing: a poorly written contract.
Whether you’re signing a lease, hiring a contractor, or setting terms with a client, your agreements need more than just a handshake and a few vague bullet points. A firm, enforceable contract is one of the best ways to protect your business from future disputes.
At Pickrel, Schaeffer & Ebeling, our litigation attorneys regularly assist businesses in enforcing contracts or defending themselves when one goes awry. Here’s what your business contracts should include:
- Clear Payment Terms
Include exact amounts, payment schedules, penalties for late payments, and any conditions tied to milestones or deliverables. Ambiguous payment language is a frequent cause of lawsuits. - Defined Scope of Work
Vague terms like “as needed” or “to be determined” open the door to miscommunication. Spell out exactly what services or products are included—and what isn’t. - Dispute Resolution Clause
How will disagreements be handled? Mediation first? Arbitration? Litigation in a specific court? A dispute resolution clause can save time and money if things go south. - Termination Provisions
Contracts should outline the conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement. Without this, ending a bad deal can trigger a new round of legal trouble. - Choice of Law and Jurisdiction
If you conduct business outside of Ohio, ensure that your contract specifies that Ohio law governs the agreement and that any disputes will be resolved in local courts. - Liability Limitations
Consider clauses that cap damages, limit warranties, or protect against certain types of claims. These can’t eliminate all risk, but they can reduce your exposure to it.
Your contracts are only as strong as the language they contain. Let our attorneys review your agreements before they become courtroom exhibits. Call 937.223.1130 or connect with us at pselaw.com for experienced business counsel.
