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It's a good practice to contact a lawyer before signing a contract in several situations. Consider the total value you expect to receive or pay.  The cost of up front advice is always less than the cost to fix things later.  Consulting with a lawyer can help ensure that you fully understand the terms and implications of the contract, protect your rights, and avoid potential legal issues down the road. Here are some situations when you should consider contacting a lawyer before signing a contract:

1. Complex Contracts: If the contract is long, contains legal jargon, or is difficult to understand, it's wise to seek legal advice to interpret the terms and conditions accurately.
2. High-Stakes Agreements: For contracts involving significant financial investments, property transactions, or long-term commitments, such as buying a home, starting a business, or entering into a partnership.
3. Employment Contracts: Before accepting or making a job offer, it's advisable to have an attorney review the employment documents to ensure that they protect your rights and is fair.
4. Business Contracts: When your business is entering into agreements with suppliers, clients, partners, or other businesses, a lawyer can help protect your interests and avoid potential disputes.
5. Lease or Rental Agreements: If you're leasing property or renting a commercial space, consulting with a lawyer can help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and remedies.
6. Intellectual Property Agreements: Contracts related to patents, copyrights, trademarks, or licensing agreements should be reviewed by a lawyer to protect your intellectual property rights.
7. Construction Contracts: Before starting a construction project, hiring contractors, or working as a subcontractor it's important to have a lawyer review the construction contract to avoid disputes and ensure compliance with laws and adequate and effective insurance coverage.
8. Debt Agreements: Contracts related to loans, mortgages, or other financial obligations can have significant long-term consequences, so it's crucial to understand the terms and legal implications.
9. Consumer Contracts: If you're entering into contracts with companies for services or products, or if you provide services or products to the public you may want legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected, and there are no surprises.
10. Contracts with Government Entities: When dealing with government contracts, it's important to ensure compliance with various regulations and legal requirements, and to know your rights.
11. Dispute Resolution Clauses: If the contract includes dispute resolution clauses, such as arbitration or mediation, you should understand their implications and how they may affect your legal rights.

Remember that legal advice can save you from costly mistakes and legal disputes in the future. Lawyers have the expertise to identify potential pitfalls and can help you negotiate more favorable terms when necessary. It's generally a good practice to consult with an attorney whenever you have concerns or questions about a contract, ensuring that it aligns with your interests and legal rights.

RC Kelly Law Associates understands your business and the challenges you face each day. We provide assistance and counsel to you and your staff so you can spend your time generating revenue instead of reading contracts. Call us today at 215-896-846 to learn more about our services and how we can help your company succeed.