Free Legal Contract Drafting Checklist Format

Define the purpose and scope of the contract.

Identify all parties involved and their legal names.

Determine the governing law and jurisdiction.

Assess any regulatory or compliance requirements.

Verify the authority of signatories to bind the parties.

Include a clear title that reflects the purpose of the agreement.

State the date of the agreement.

Provide detailed definitions of key terms.

Clearly outline the obligations of each party.

Include consideration (payment, services, or other forms of value).

Specify performance deadlines and timelines.

Representations and warranties of the parties.

Confidentiality and non-disclosure clauses.

Termination and renewal terms.

Indemnification and liability limitations.

Dispute resolution mechanism (e.g., mediation, arbitration).

Force majeure clause.

Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Include clauses addressing data protection and privacy.

Verify compliance with intellectual property laws.

Address export controls, if applicable.

Include a compliance with laws clause.

Use plain, unambiguous language.

Avoid overly complex legal jargon unless necessary.

Differentiate between mandatory and discretionary terms.

Use consistent terminology throughout the document.

Ensure that numbers are written out and numerically stated (e.g., "ten (10)").

Attach related documents or exhibits (e.g., specifications, diagrams).

Include a schedule of deliverables or milestones.

Provide a payment schedule, if applicable.

Verify that all referenced exhibits are included and properly labeled.

Proofread the contract for grammatical and typographical errors.

Ensure consistency between clauses and provisions.

Cross-check references to other sections of the contract.

Review by legal counsel for compliance and enforceability.

Provide space for signatures of authorized representatives.

Include the date and place of execution.

Add notarization or witnesses, if required.

Distribute executed copies to all parties.

Retain a copy of the signed contract for records.

Schedule periodic reviews of the contract’s terms.

Update provisions as needed to reflect changes in law or circumstances.

Confirm renewal or termination at the end of the contract term.