🧾 What to thoroughly check before signing:

• Who is the contracting party? A name is not enough – for companies, verify the registration number and who is authorized to sign

• Subject of the contract – is it clear, specific, and does it reflect your actual agreement?

• Deadlines and time limits – be careful with vague terms like “without undue delay”

• Contractual penalties and sanctions – sometimes excessive, other times completely missing

• Warranties, liability, claims – who is responsible for what, and how can you enforce your rights?

• Termination clauses – can you cancel or withdraw from the contract?

• Governing law and jurisdiction – where will disputes be handled if they arise?

❌ Common mistakes when signing:

• Not reading attachments or referenced documents

• Signing with the wrong person (unauthorized representative)

• Vague language that allows multiple interpretations

• Thinking “we’ll sort it out later”

📚 Real-life example:

A client signed a lease for an advertising space with a clause stating “for an indefinite period with a 12-month termination notice.” After three months, he wanted out. He couldn’t – he had to pay for the full year, even though he no longer used the space.

✅ Lawyer’s recommendation:

Know exactly what you’re signing. There’s no shame in taking a contract home to read it in peace, or sending it to a lawyer for review. One meeting or a quick revision can save you years of problems.