Your Questions Answered

What are the contents of the contracts?

All contracts feature stipulations on financial matters, payment, scope of services, confidentiality, rights, duration, termination and additional legal matters.

What about ‘the rights’ to the work/services I deliver?

Nearly all creative works/services (such as photography, design, copywriting) are copyright protected. This means that no other person than you may use those works, unless you either (a) transfer those copyrights to another party, or (b) grant another party the right (license) to use the copyrights.

In the contracts, you transfer the rights to your client, as almost all clients consider this non-negotiable.

Do note that according to international treaties, there is no need for any registration whatsoever in order for your works to be copyright protected. In some countries you can however file for registration, but that is no requirement for copyright protection, as it only serves as prove of you having designed/made something on a certain date (in the US the registration requirement was abandoned in 1989).

For example, in the US you can file a registration at the US Copyright Office, which costs $ 35 for an online (single) application.

Can I use the contracts in all countries, and with foreign clients?

Yes!

The contracts are designed to be used in national and international business – no matter which country you live in.

For example, if your office is in London, you can use the contracts to build a website for a German client. If you’re based in Florida, you can use the contracts to design a logo for a client in London.

Furthermore, in the contract you can decide which law applies and which court has jurisdiction over any disputes. If you’re living in France, you may choose French law and the courts of Paris. But if you like to do so, you’re free to choose any other.

Will I understand the legal mumbo jumbo?

First of all, we did our best to keep the contracts as clear as possible and all contracts come with explanatory notes.

Second, if you have any questions on the legal talk, we’re here to help you, free of charge.

Third, there is a reason for the complicated way of writing things down: your protection.

Finally, bear in mind that your clients will be impressed with a professional legal contract and will consider you a professional with business experience.

Do you provide instructions with the contract?

All contracts come with explanatory notes. And if you have any questions, we’re here to help you, free of charge.

Why shouldn’t I use any of the free templates available on the internet?

We argue strongly against this. Usually those contracts are the result of copy-pasting from different contracts, are written by non-professionals and will not protect your interests in the way our contracts do.

Are the contracts fair to me and my clients?

Yes!

As a freelancer you’ll be the underdog most of the time. And this was the main reason for us to start our service. Freelancers (generally) don’t have the budget to have a lawyer assist them in negotiations. But as our contracts are based on equality and fairness (and are affordable to freelancers) there won’t be much negotiations.

What do I do when I want any special clauses? Can I hire you guys?

We do offer that service. We’re all lawyers with a lot of experience in contracting, intellectual property and litigation and we can add any special clause you like. Prices vary on the type (and scope) of the clause, but start at $ 50.

I’m a freelancer but there’s no specific contract for my field of expertise. Which contract should I use?

You can always use the ‘independent contractor agreement’: https://thecontractguys.com/independent-contractor-agreement-template/

How many clients am I allowed to use the contract with?

There’s no limit on the amount of clients you can use the contract with. However, you’re not allowed to sell/resell the contract, or provide the contract to others (except for your own clients of course).