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Contract drafting and review
Business contract drafting and review in Scotland
Before you sign a contract, it pays to know exactly what you are agreeing to. We draft contracts from scratch and review other people’s drafts, explaining the risks in plain English.
Before you sign, and after
Whether you need a contract written or a second opinion on one you have been sent, we explain the risks clearly.
Contract drafting
Our commercial contract solicitors take time to understand your objectives, your business model and the challenges you face. We then prepare a contract that reflects the deal you have actually agreed and protects your position if things go wrong.
Whether the contract relates to a major new project or day-to-day trading, we can help. Typical work includes distribution, services, export, equipment supply and hire, supply chain arrangements, events, marketing, sponsorship, partnering arrangements and joint ventures.
Contract review
When a customer, supplier or partner sends you their contract, it will usually be written in their favour. We review it and give you a short, practical report that covers:
- The main risksWhat could go wrong and how much it could cost you.
- Unusual or onerous termsClauses that go beyond what is normal for this kind of contract.
- Missing protectionsTerms that should be there but are not, such as a cap on your liability.
- Suggested changesA marked-up draft, with priorities, so you know what to push for.
What we check in every contract
- Who the parties are
- Scope of work and specification
- Price, payment and late payment
- Caps and exclusions of liability
- Indemnities
- Insurance requirements
- Intellectual property
- Confidentiality and data protection
- Term, renewal and termination
- Force majeure
- Governing law and jurisdiction
- How the contract must be signed
Support through the contract lifecycle
We support you at every stage, from tendering and structuring through drafting, negotiation, review and completion. Once a contract is signed, we can advise on variations, renewals, ending the contract and resolving disputes.
We also work with colleagues across the firm on related issues such as property and dispute resolution, so you get joined-up advice.
At a glance
- Drafting
- Contracts written for your business, under Scots law where that suits you
- Review
- A clear summary of risks and suggested changes before you sign
- Lifecycle
- From tender and negotiation through to renewal and exit
- Signing
- Electronic signing and signing in counterpart are both possible
Send us the contract and a short note of the deal, and we will tell you what to watch out for.
Book a free* consultation0141 471 9166*Free initial consultation of up to 30 minutes.How a contract review works
- Send us the contractAlong with a short note of the deal and anything you are worried about.
- We review itWe read the whole document against your commercial goals and Scots law.
- You get a clear reportA summary of the risks and a marked-up draft with our suggested changes.
- Negotiation if neededWe can negotiate the changes with the other side for you.
Questions we are often asked
How quickly can you review a contract?
It depends on the length and complexity. We will agree a timescale with you at the start, and we can prioritise urgent deals.
Can you work on the other side’s template?
Yes. Most of our review work is on contracts drafted by the other party. We focus on the changes that matter most to you.
Will you negotiate with the other party?
If you want us to, yes. Some clients prefer to negotiate themselves using our marked-up draft, and that is fine too.
What if the contract is under English law?
We can tell you how that affects you and whether it is worth asking for Scots law instead.
Can you help with a contract we have already signed?
Yes. We can explain your rights and obligations, how to vary or end the contract, and your options if there is a dispute.
Get in touch
Speak to a senior business solicitor
Every business matter is different, so we start by listening. Tell us what you are dealing with and we will give you clear, practical advice and an honest view of the likely cost.
Read our Google reviews- Senior lawyers on every matter
- Free* first consultation
- Glasgow based, advising across Scotland
Your legal team
Senior solicitors on every matter
Your matter is handled by experienced solicitors who know Scots business law and will explain your options in plain English.
Billy Smith
Director and Solicitor. Set up the firm in 2010 to deliver legal services better.
Emma King
Director and Solicitor. Joined in 2011 and keeps the firm’s service excellent.
Scott Stevenson
Associate Director. Calm, composed and logical under pressure.
Ciara Young
Associate Director. Trained with the firm from 2019.
Not sure who you need?
Tell us about your matter and we will put you in touch with the right solicitor.