An agreement letter is a formal document that outlines the terms and conditions of an arrangement between two or more parties. It can cover a wide range of topics, from business partnerships to rental agreements to service contracts. While often associated with legal jargon, agreement letters can be written in a clear and concise manner, even in a casual tone.
This example demonstrates how to draft an agreement letter in a more relaxed and approachable style while still maintaining its legal validity.
Perfect Letter of Agreement Templates ᐅ TemplateLab
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Subject: Agreement for [Briefly state the purpose of the agreement, e.g., “Freelance Writing Services”]
Dear [Recipient Name],
This letter constitutes an agreement between [Your Name/Company Name] (hereinafter referred to as “You”) and [Recipient Name/Company Name] (hereinafter referred to as “Client”) regarding [Clearly state the purpose of the agreement, e.g., “freelance writing services for the Client’s website”].
1. Scope of Work
1. Scope of Work
This agreement outlines the following services to be provided by You to Client:
[List specific services, e.g., “Writing and editing of [number] blog posts per month.”]
[List any other relevant services, e.g., “Conducting keyword research for blog posts.”]
[Specify any deliverables, e.g., “All completed articles will be delivered in [format] by the [date] of each month.”]
2. Payment Terms
2. Payment Terms
You will be paid [amount] per [service unit, e.g., “blog post”] upon [delivery/completion].
Payment will be made via [method, e.g., “bank transfer”] to [your bank account details].
Invoices will be submitted to Client by the [date] of each month for services rendered in the previous month.
Client agrees to pay all invoices within [number] days of receipt.
3. Confidentiality
3. Confidentiality
Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of all information exchanged during the course of this agreement, including but not limited to:
Client’s confidential business information.
You’re proprietary methods and techniques.
4. Intellectual Property
4. Intellectual Property
Upon full and final payment for each service, Client will acquire all rights to the completed work, including copyright.
You retain the right to use excerpts of the work in your portfolio or for promotional purposes, provided that Client’s name is not associated with these excerpts.
5. Term and Termination
5. Term and Termination
This agreement shall commence on [start date] and shall continue for a period of [duration, e.g., “one year”] unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
Either party may terminate this agreement with [number] days’ written notice to the other party.
This agreement may be terminated immediately by either party upon a material breach of this agreement by the other party.
6. Disclaimer of Warranties
6. Disclaimer of Warranties
You provide services on an “as is” basis and make no warranties, express or implied, regarding the services, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
7. Limitation of Liability
7. Limitation of Liability
In no event shall either party be liable to the other party for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of or relating to this agreement, regardless of the form of action, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise.
8. Governing Law
8. Governing Law
This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [jurisdiction].
9. Dispute Resolution
9. Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising out of or relating to this agreement shall be resolved through [method, e.g., “negotiation” or “mediation”] prior to resorting to any legal action.
10. Entire Agreement
10. Entire Agreement
This agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications, representations, or agreements, whether oral or written.
11. Amendments
11. Amendments
Any amendments or modifications to this agreement must be made in writing and signed by both parties.
12. Severability
12. Severability
If any provision of this agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
13. Notices
13. Notices
All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given when delivered personally, upon the first business day following deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, certified or registered, return receipt requested, addressed as follows:
If to You: [Your Address]
If to Client: [Client’s Address]
or to such other address as either party may designate in writing from time to time.
14. Independent Contractor
14. Independent Contractor
You are an independent contractor and not an employee of Client. You are solely responsible for your own taxes, insurance, and other business expenses.
15. Force Majeure
15. Force Majeure
Neither party shall be liable for any delay or failure to perform its obligations under this agreement due to causes beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, fire, flood, earthquake, labor disputes, and government regulations.
Please review this agreement carefully. If you have any questions or require any modifications, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
This example illustrates how to create a professional yet approachable agreement letter. By using clear, concise language and avoiding excessive legal jargon, you can ensure that both parties understand the terms and conditions of the agreement. Remember to tailor this template to your specific needs and consult with an attorney if necessary.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between an agreement letter and a contract?
While often used interchangeably, there can be subtle distinctions. Generally, a contract is a legally binding agreement with more formal and enforceable terms, while an agreement letter may be less formal and may not have the same legal weight.
2. Do I need a lawyer to draft an agreement letter?
For simple agreements, you may be able to draft the letter yourself. However, it’s always advisable to consult with an attorney for complex agreements or if you have any concerns about legal implications.
3. Can I change the terms of the agreement after it’s signed?
Yes, but only with the written consent of all parties involved.
4. What happens if one party breaches the agreement?
The consequences of a breach can vary depending on the specific terms of the agreement. Possible remedies include termination of the agreement, damages, or specific performance.
5. How can I ensure that the agreement is legally enforceable?
Ensure that the agreement is in writing, signed by all parties, and contains all essential elements of a valid contract, such as offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual assent.
