Get it in writing
Many years ago a lawyer friend told me that if you don’t get it in writing, you have nothing. If someone refuses to sign an agreement, you can bet they…
Many years ago a lawyer friend told me that if you don't get it in writing, you have nothing. If someone refuses to sign an agreement, you can bet they don't intend to keep it.
Verbal contracts may be "legally binding" but they are way more difficult to enforce.
We all understand (I hope) the importance of getting the deal down on paper and signed by all parties. I learned that early on. But it took a few thumps for me to understand that any and all documents related to the project need to be signed and dated as well. And that includes drawings.
I soon developed the protocol of printing multiple copies of working drawings and having the customer sign and date them all. A copy was left with them. Any changes also have to be signed in the same manner. It's the only way to protect yourself as well as the customer.
D.D.
David DeCristoforo possesses an extensive resume as designer/maker of fine furniture, high-end cabinetry and architectural woodwork. His experience in professional woodworking spans a period of 35 years. For the past 20 years David DeCristoforo Design has been located in Woodland, California. During this time David's shop has ranged in scope from a "full on" cabinet production shop with as many as 15 employees to a small fine furniture and custom millwork shop, working with his son, David RBJ, a highly skilled maker in his own right.