Short Answer: Whenever money, expectations, deadlines, intellectual property, or risk are involved,you should have a written agreement.
Why It Matters: A written contract does much more than satisfy a legal requirement: it creates clarity. It gives everyone the same understanding of who is responsible for what, when performance is due, how disputes will be handled, and what happens if something changes. Too many business owners rely on emails, text messages, or verbal conversations because the other person is a friend, long-time client, or referral. Unfortunately, those are often the relationships that become the most difficult when expectations aren't aligned.
A good contract isn't about preparing for failure. It's about creating a shared roadmap for success and reducing misunderstandings before they become expensive disputes.
Common Mistakes: Starting work before the agreement is finalized; relying on verbal promises; copying someone else's contract; using AI to draft and assuming it covers everything; assuming a simple project doesn't need a written agreement.
Michelle's Bottom Line: If it's important enough to discuss, it's important enough to document.
