How do I make sure my independent contractor agreement is in good standing?
Legally speaking, a contract for custom-made garments—like pastoral robes—is governed by general principles of contract law, including offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual intent to be bound.
Because you are offering a service with a tangible product, it’s helpful to have your terms clearly laid out in writing, including:
- Scope of work
- Timelines
- Payment structure
- Cancellation policy
- Delivery terms
Since your clients may be located in different states, it’s also advisable to include a choice of law and forum clause, which specifies which state’s laws govern the contract and where any disputes will be resolved. This can help protect you from having to litigate or mediate disputes in a distant or unfamiliar jurisdiction.
In terms of making sure your contract is in “good standing,” what you’re really looking for is legal sufficiency and enforceability—meaning the contract terms are clear, not unconscionable, and that both parties are fulfilling their obligations.
If your contract does not yet exist in formal written form and you’ve been operating on informal promises or verbal agreements, now would be a good time to formalize those terms into a professional-looking agreement for future clients. Doing so demonstrates that you are serious, organized, and consistent in your business dealings, and also helps prevent misunderstandings.
You may want to include disclaimers regarding custom work (e.g., non-refundable deposits, design approval process, and final sale terms) to avoid disputes down the line.
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Independent Contractor Agreement
Full Conversation
I just want to make sure my contract is in good standing.
Lexi, Chatbot
I understand the importance of ensuring your contract is in good standing. Can you tell me what type of contract it is?
I'm a master seamstress, and I'm making pastoral robes for men and women in the 5-fold ministry.
Lexi, Chatbot
Have there been any recent changes or developments that may affect the status of your contract?
No. I've made one for an old friend in the ministry, and now the floodgates are open. I just want to be taken seriously in my business dealings with the client.
Lexi, Chatbot
Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your contract status.
I'm not sure if it matters that I'm in one state and they're in another. This might be a concern.
Legal Eagle
Good afternoon and welcome to AskaLawyer. It’s excellent that you’re thinking proactively about your contract, especially as your business begins to grow and attract more clients across state lines.
Legal Eagle
Legally speaking, a contract for custom-made garments—like pastoral robes—is governed by general principles of contract law, including offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual intent to be bound.
Because you are offering a service with a tangible product, it’s helpful to have your terms clearly laid out in writing, including:
- Scope of work
- Timelines
- Payment structure
- Cancellation policy
- Delivery terms
Since your clients may be located in different states, it’s also advisable to include a choice of law and forum clause, which specifies which state’s laws govern the contract and where any disputes will be resolved. This can help protect you from having to litigate or mediate disputes in a distant or unfamiliar jurisdiction.
In terms of making sure your contract is in “good standing,” what you’re really looking for is legal sufficiency and enforceability—meaning the contract terms are clear, not unconscionable, and that both parties are fulfilling their obligations.
If your contract does not yet exist in formal written form and you’ve been operating on informal promises or verbal agreements, now would be a good time to formalize those terms into a professional-looking agreement for future clients. Doing so demonstrates that you are serious, organized, and consistent in your business dealings, and also helps prevent misunderstandings.
You may want to include disclaimers regarding custom work (e.g., non-refundable deposits, design approval process, and final sale terms) to avoid disputes down the line.
Legal Eagle
Does that make sense?
Yes, I agree. Please call me.
Legal Eagle
I am deaf my friend and not able to take a phone call. Thank you for understanding.
Is there someone I can talk to?
Legal Eagle
If you're looking for a phone call you can always submit a new question and another expert may be able to accommodate.
If you're looking for an assessment you're welcome to upload the agreement and I can provide a proposal for the review. My initial assessment is above, my friend.
I'm downloading it now for upload.
File attached (G3PGTT1)
Can you access it? How long will it take for you to read and advise me?
Legal Eagle
It looks like I see the document. You should see a pop-up now for the assessment, my friend.
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