Platform Overview

Why Do You Need Contracts for Freelance Services?

It’s necessary to have a contractor agreement in place for freelance services. As a freelancer, you need a contract to ensure that you’re not shortchanged, or suddenly without work. Contracts reduce the room for interpretation, making clear your commitments and duties. Below, we break down in depth why contracts are necessary for freelance services.

What freelance services need contracts?

Basically, all of them.

Whether you’re a photographer, videographer, model, influencer, actor, or any other kind of freelancer a contract is important. It exists to protect the freelancer.

Why have a contract?

To ensure work

A freelancer’s challenge is finding consistent work. Without an employer, a freelancer relies on the scheduled work to make a living. If the client hiring the freelancer withdraws last minute, this can leave the freelancer without expected pay that day. To ensure you receive the money expected, a contract can force the client to pay regardless of if they follow through with the service.

To outline payment details

Clients may attempt to be dodgy relating to payments. Sometimes, they may be unwilling to pay the fixed price due to how quick the service took, or they may be disappointed with the quality. Regardless, they may attempt to break the promise on payment owed. A contract will ensure the payment details are clear, and provide legal options if they attempt to short-change you.

To limit liability

Occasionally, mistakes happen. To limit your liability, contracts may contain clauses outlining this. This ensures that in the event of a mishap, you will not be liable for damages.

To establish clear expectations

A miscommunication can occur between the freelancer and client where each has a different view on the work to be completed. A valid contract removes this possibility. It will outline the expectations that each party has in regard to the work to be completed, timelines and payment details. This ensures no discrepancies, and no future issues arising.

Final thoughts

Contracts for freelance services are necessary to ensure that each party is clear on their expectations. It ensures that neither party gets taken advantage of, and keeps things on an even playing field. For further enquiries on this issue, a contract lawyer may be able to assist.

Don’t know where to start? Contact us on 1800 529 728 to learn more about customising legal documents and obtaining a fixed-fee quote from Australia’s largest lawyer marketplace.

You may also like
Recent Articles

Get the latest news

By clicking on 'Sign up to our newsletter' you are agreeing to the Lawpath Terms & Conditions

Share:

You may also like

Having an equitable interest in a property may give the holder the right to acquire legal title. Find out what this means and when it can occur here.
If you're interested in protecting your assets for your children, a descendant's trust is likely the best option. Our article breaks this down.
Have you ever wondered whether there is a legal requirement to provide a receipt to customers? Read along to find out when you need to.