If you find that you’re less than comfortable with the idea of free contract templates online but can’t yet afford a lawyer to draft you a custom contract, there are plenty of lawyer owned and operated websites to choose from that offer contract templates for very reasonable fees.
We offer members of the Virtualcopia Business Collective a contract template designed specifically for freelancers, virtual assistants, and online business managers. We also have additional legal forms for add-on services and additional clauses.
However, as we mention in our article here, there is no one-size-fits-all freelance contract, and if you have the money to do it, it’s worth looking at having a contract vetted by a lawyer who is experienced in contract law.
There are several lawyer-based companies that exist out there offering freelance contract templates, though we’ve narrowed it down to our three favorites which we’ll highlight here:
- Artful Contracts
- The Contract Shop
- Destination Legal
Artful Contracts
Artful contracts is a freelance contract template business started by Amy Nesheim, a former corporate lawyer who, much like the majority of Virtualcopia’s clients, grew weary of the daily grind of a corporate gig. She’s crafted a collection of templates that address various business niches and scenarios that cover just about anything a freelancer or online business manager would ever need.
(**Use our promotional code “VIRTUALCOPIA” to receive a 10% discount!)
Destination Legal
Destination Legal was formed by Sarah Kornblet Waldbuesser, Esq., a former law firm employee who grew tired of the 9-5 life. Like many freelancers and online business managers, she wanted to be able to travel freely and still make a living. In her travels, she witnessed firsthand the need for legal help from other digital nomads like herself, and developed Destination Legal as a solution.
Her freelance contract template niches focus on Coaches and Wellness practitioners, but also cover many other niches, including retreats and events and even website protection concerns such as privacy policies and terms of service.
(**Use our promotional code “virtualcopia” to receive a 10% discount!)
The Contract Shop
The Contract Shop not only has several contracts available for purchase, they also have an extensive library of helpful blogs that cover a variety of subjects aimed at first-time business owners and solopreneurs.
All of their contracts have not only been drafted by lawyers but also peer reviewed. If you can’t find a contract here to cover what you need, it doesn’t exist.
Secure your business and yourself
When you’ve grown to the point that you can afford it, having a lawyer can be so incredibly helpful. Free freelance contract templates are a great resource and are used by many, though in the ever-shifting world of law, it never hurts to have a professional on your side.
Matthew Ogden is a Minneapolis-based copywriter and content writer and editor. He’s written for national retailers and lobster roll companies alike. When not writing he can be found nose deep in a book, writing and performing music, or nerding out about guitar tone.