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contracts
I do Motion Graphics work as an independent contractor but I have never actually had a client sign a contract. Recently I had a client back out of a $5000 project after one week of my work. He offered me $300 for my time.
Is there a standard contract available to protect against things like this.
Any other advice? -
2 Replies
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Frank, I’ve never used formal contracts or anything that smells like a contract because it gets the client nervous and he has to show it to his attorney for addendums, then I have to show the changes to my attorney etc.
It is important, when you work with a small company, to require 50% up front. If you don’t, you will get burned repeatedly, just as you are now. If your client is associated with a large company, you won’t need to do this.
I don’t know enough about your situation to give any advice on payment. Was the client unhappy with the work? If so, let it go. If you work i a small community, it might be better to (as much as it kills you) end on friendly terms for the sake of good word-of-mouth. And just don’t work for him again.
On the other hand, if he’s done something crooked take his butt to small claims court and do whatever you can. Small claims is almost more hassle than it’s worth, but there would at least be the gratification of making his life unpleasant for a while.
As for agreements, when I worked with small companies, I wrote down the deliverables, the amount agreed on, the turnaround time, and that all changes needed to be in writing, and any changes or additions beyond that could raise the budget. I would also give the client a specific timeframe for approval – otherwise, you’ll wait on hold for days.
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Like Jean, we have found that big contracts can send clients over the edge.
I also whole heartedly agree with 50% up front.
Our studio does usually do a simplified LOA (letter of agreement), that is usually one page, two at most, that stipulates we will do X, you will pay Y, and it will all be done on these dates. Sign here. If the gig is substantially large, then the attorneys are going to talk anyway, so out comes the big contract.
Some of our biggest clients, our concert clients, do it all on a handshake. Talk about having to trust… But they are ALL used to substantial up front fees.
Good luck, and look out !
Bob Bonniol
MODE Studios
http://www.modestudios.com
Contributing Editor, Entertainment Design Magazine
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