Don't Sign Away Your Rights. Why You Need to Understand Before You Sign | O'Keeffe O'Brien Lyson Attorneys

Don’t Sign Away Your Rights. Why You Need to Understand Before You Sign

It’s a simple task. Just sign on the line. Click “Agree” at the bottom of the window. Tap the check box and continue. But do you really know what you are agreeing when you sign, click, or tap the bottom of a contract or agreement? Here are a few things you should know before you agree to those terms.

Read the entire contract before signing.

Considered one of the most important points, it is essential to read through the entire contract before you sign anything. Be sure to take note of any part of any confusing language or any questions that may arise when you are reading through it.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand.

If questions do arise upon reading, be sure you ask them. It is your right to know what you are signing for and the other party has no obligation to interpret it without your questioning. So ask about any part of the contract or agreement you are unsure about.

Don’t sign a contract with blank spaces.

Ensure nothing is left empty before signing the contract; either cross it out or fill in the holes in the document. Make sure anything agreed to verbally is actually documented in the contract and anything you disagree with is crossed out.

Obtain a final copy of the signed contract and keep it.

Once everything is signed, be sure to request a complete copy of the contract for your own records. Keep it in a safe place in case an issue arises where you would need to refer back to the contract.

Ask for help if you need it.

There are resources available to help you interpret contracts and their jargon before you sign to something you may be unfamiliar with. The knowledgeable lawyers at O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Attorneys are ready to assist you in your contract needs. Contact them today with any questions you have or to schedule a meeting to go over your own contracts or agreements.