Tips on Drafting Contracts

Contracts should be clear, complete and tailored to the deal. Avoid copying generic templates without thought — every transaction has its own commercial drivers and risks.

Define key terms carefully. Ambiguity is the most common cause of contractual disputes, and a few minutes spent clarifying language at the drafting stage can save years of litigation.

Address what happens if things go wrong: termination rights, limitation of liability, indemnities, force majeure and dispute resolution. Parties rarely focus on these clauses until they are needed — and by then it is too late to negotiate.

Finally, make sure the contract is signed by people with authority to bind their organisation, and that any agreed variations are recorded in writing. A well-organised contract file is one of the simplest ways to reduce legal risk.