Contracts are one area where it never pays to be informal. Not having everything reduced to writing can leave your business in serious risk and potentially cost a large amount of money. Even though it may seem like work at the time, having all of your contracts in writing will give you invaluable protection.
It would be inaccurate to say that a contract in writing would never be enforced, but you are always taking a chance. You would need to show evidence that would be consistent with an oral agreement. There are certain topics that a court requires to be in writing before it can be enforced.
Make Your Agreement as Definitive as Possible
In addition, putting an agreement in writing makes the terms of your agreement clear. So long as you use definitive language, there should be far less uncertainty about the scope and terms of the agreement. You will have the predictability of knowing exactly what you have agreed to and what the other party must do as the result of your contract. It will be right there in front of you in writing, without each party having their own version of the agreement.
In other words, while there is no requirement (in most cases) that a contract must be in writing, it definitely should be in writing as a matter of practice. This will leave no doubt about whether both parties intended to enter into a contract. In addition, you are better off when you have an attorney draft the contract for you or at least review the language.
Call an Atlanta General Contracts Attorney
Battleson Law helps businesses both enter into contracts and in litigation when there are disputes about agreements. Reach out to us online or call us today at 470.766.8011 to see how we can help you.