Are you using an outside consultant or a self-employed contractor to work for your company?  Do you have in place a service agreement or consultancy agreement to document the arrangement?

Many businesses use self-employed contractors and consultants rather than employing staff full time. This can be very cost-effective, particularly businesses with fluctuating orders and need for staff. It’s important however, that staff you engage this way have properly worded consultancy or service agreements. This will ensure that both parties understand the rights and responsibilities of the relationship and it will protect you in the event of any disputes. You will also have documentation if HMRC ever question whether the staff are actually employees.

At Backhouse Solicitors, we are experts in preparing consultancy and service agreements. We will work with you to understand exactly what you expect of your contractors and prepare agreements tailored exactly to your requirements.

The benefits for your business:

  • You have written agreements – these are enforceable in the event of a dispute

  • You agree the payment arrangements – this reduces arguments over fees and payment

  • You can include clauses on areas such as confidentiality – these provide protection for your sensitive information

  • You can include penalty clauses – this reduces your exposure to underperformance

For more information please contact us to speak to one of our expert employment law solicitors.

Tel:          01245 893400
Email:     info@backhouse-solicitors.co.uk
Visit:       17 Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JU
Or send us a message through the Contact Us page on this website.