4 top tips for crafting a win-win business settlement contract

What is a business settlement contract?

A business settlement contract, also known as a commercial settlement agreement, is a legally binding contract between two parties that aims to resolve a dispute.

It outlines the terms and conditions under which the dispute is settled, providing a clear framework for both parties. It serves as an invaluable resolution tool, establishing agreed-upon solutions, financial terms, and any important obligations.

Find out more about business settlement contracts by reading this comprehensive guide.

4 top tips to create a win-win business settlement contract

1. Use clear and concise language

When drafting your commercial settlement agreement, opt for plain language that everyone involved can easily understand. By avoiding convoluted jargon and intricate legalese, you enhance the agreement's clarity.

Clear, straightforward language minimises the room for misinterpretation, ensuring that all parties are on the same page.

A clearly written agreement is not just a formality; it becomes a guiding document that transparently outlines the resolution, leaving no room for confusion or disputes down the line.

2. Ensure your settlement terms are all included in the agreement

This may sound like a no-brainer, but it's important to include all of the settlement terms that you have negotiated and agreed with the other party. The agreement should encompass all of the specific details, such as the settlement sum, precise timelines and defined responsibilities, leaving no room for ambiguity.

3. Consider long-term implications

Commercial settlement agreements are not merely short-term fixes; they have a lasting impact on your business operations. Before finalising the terms, take a step back and consider the long-term implications. How will this agreement affect your ongoing collaborations? What about potential future partnerships? Anticipating these scenarios allows you to make well-informed decisions.

A forward-thinking approach ensures that the terms you agree upon align with your business objectives in the years to come. By envisioning the future landscape of your business interactions, you can construct an agreement that stands the test of time.

4. Include a waiver of claims clause

A waiver of future claims and agreement not to take further legal action clause prevents either party from pursuing further legal action relating to the dispute. This ensures the disagreement is officially concluded after the settlement is agreed and prevents future litigation on the same issue.

Check out this blog for a deeper dive into this clause and why it's so important.

What happens if a waiver of claims is not included?

Without this clause, the settled issue remains open to legal challenges in the future, which could lead to unforeseen litigation and potential financial losses for both parties.

By adhering to these top tips, your commercial settlement agreement transforms from a mere agreement into a powerful tool that not only resolves the present dispute but also gives you peace of mind.

Bonus tip for your business settlement contract

So you've negotiated your terms and finished creating your agreement - what next?

Implementing robust procedures for signing and storing your agreements

Creating a solid commercial settlement agreement involves more than just agreeing to terms; it requires clear documentation, acceptance of the terms, and secure storage of the agreement.

With Docue's e-signature feature, you can ensure that all parties involved can electronically sign the agreement, making the process efficient and legally binding.

Once signed, the agreement is securely stored using Docue's document storage feature, providing a tangible record that acts as a reference point and a shield against potential disagreements in future.

For more information, read our comprehensive guide to business settlement contracts.

How can Docue help? Use our business settlement contract template!

You can use Docue’s business settlement contract template to document the resolution of a dispute between two parties.

Our business settlement contract template has been drafted by lawyers and can easily be tailored to suit your circumstances by simply answering a series of questions.

If you get stuck along the way, our handy lawyer-drafted guidance notes are there to help you answer the questions.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up now to use Docue’s business settlement contract template.