Self Help Legal Documents – You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Many individuals and small business owners will download a free contract from the internet when entering a transaction with another party. They do so in a misguided effort to save money by not hiring an attorney. Yet, just as you should not use the internet to self-diagnose a medical condition, you also should not use the internet to craft an important legal instrument.

Internet contracts can lead to serious legal problems. Online templates are generic and not tailored to your specific situation, jurisdiction, or business needs. What works in one state may be completely invalid in another due to different laws and regulations. Many internet contracts refer to laws that have been rescinded and are no longer in effect. Such contracts often lack important clauses or include outdated language. Critical details such as correct party names, payment terms, time frames, liability limitations, representations and warranties, and dispute resolution are often missing from internet contracts. This sloppiness can leave you in a poor position if the other party breaches the contract. Without customized provisions, you may unintentionally expose yourself to risks or miss legal protections you were unaware were necessary.

Moreover, if a dispute arises, a poorly drafted or invalid contract can be challenged, leaving you with little legal recourse. Legal documents should be precise, personalized, and professionally crafted to protect your interests—not copied from a template that does not know you or your business. Investing in a licensed attorney to draft or review your contract ensures that it is enforceable and comprehensive.

Saving money upfront by using a free contract form can cost you far more in the long run. As the adage goes – it can cost you 3x as much money to get out of a legal dispute than it would have cost to draft the document properly.

This article is for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.