Do I Have the Right Contracts in Place to Protect My Business?

Running a business takes more than just hard work and good ideas. It also takes the right legal protection. One of the most important ways to protect your business is by having clear, strong contracts. But how do you know if your current contracts are enough?

A contract is a legal agreement between two or more parties. It explains what each side is supposed to do, how much something will cost, how long the agreement will last, and what happens if something goes wrong. Having contracts in place isn’t just a formality. It’s your best protection when a deal falls apart or a dispute comes up.

If you’re a business owner in Indiana, here are some key questions to ask yourself:

• Do I have written contracts with my customers or clients? Verbal agreements can be hard to prove. A written contract helps both sides understand expectations and avoid confusion.

• Do I use contracts with my employees and contractors? These should cover pay, job duties, confidentiality, and what happens if someone leaves your business.

• Do I have vendor or supplier agreements? These contracts should explain payment terms, delivery schedules, and what happens if goods are late or damaged.

• Do I have a partnership agreement (if I co-own the business)? This should cover ownership percentages, decision-making, and what happens if someone wants to leave the business.

Many business owners use contract templates they find online. While these might seem easy and cheap, they often leave out important protections or don’t follow Indiana law. A contract that’s vague, outdated, or poorly written can do more harm than good, especially in court.

That’s why working with a business lawyer matters. A lawyer can review your current contracts, spot weak areas, and draft new agreements that are specific to your business needs. They can also help you enforce your contracts if someone breaks the rules.

At Brinkley Law, we help Indiana businesses build smart contracts that protect what you’ve worked so hard to create. Contact Brinkley Law today at 317-766-1379 for a consultation and find out if your contracts are working for you or putting your business at risk.