Write a contract for freelance work?

[Shigeta]

Hey gents,

I got hired for a 1 day shoot, 3-camera recording of a guy playing drums. Should I write up a contract explaining my responsibilities and expectations and pay, and have him and I sign? Would this cover me in case he tried to screw me? Would I need to consult a lawyer for this or is it something I can type up, have both sign, and be legally use-able in case of need?

Thanks guys for your advise.

 

[tired]

I've thought about having a contract but for now I specify in writing what I'm offering and what it costs - a brief or formal proposal. While it may not hold up in court, it's good enough for now. I'm relying on the hope that the person/company I'm dealing with has some morals and is as scared of going to court as I am. I send / deliver this to the client and they need to accept in writing.

Even with a 'water tight' contract I can end up in court where only the lawyers win.

 

[Sprodj]

When dealing with money, time, and expectations - ALWAYS have a contract. It may put some people off, but if those people don't want to sign a contract, I take that as suspicious from the beginning. Even when I'm on set working with crew that I've known for years, and are friends with, we sign agreements, memos, contracts, etc.

99.9% of the time in a situation where someone is trying to screw you out of something, if you've signed a contract with them and you show them their signature on it, you'll avoid court and lawyers.

It's much wiser to have the contract first - saves you a headache later.