Read Documents before You Sign Them
Oral agreements may work in some situations – often more informal situations – and may have worked in the past, but you should read written documents you receive from the other party before you sign them. You also should understand the agreement that you are entering before you sign written documents. Written documents always are easier to enforce than oral agreements. Remember: Read written documents carefully before you sign them.
Why should you read documents before you sign them? The documents and the fine print may include terms that benefit the other party, not you, and the contract language is often confusing to laypersons. Moreover, you want to ensure that all matters, which were discussed with a salesperson, are included in the written document. Often, the written document may provide that the salesperson’s statements are not part of the written contract. Similarly, you want to ensure that there is no miscommunication between you and the other party.
Furthermore, note: Not all documents are the same. There are documents that are similar, but to assume that all documents are exactly the same is unwise.
When should you read documents carefully before you sign them? You always should read documents carefully before you sign them, even when you know the persons who wrote them. If you do not read documents carefully before you sign them all the time, you could end up hurting yourself down the road.
Remember: Do not feel rushed. If you sign a document in a rush, the consequences could be severe. As a result, signing a document in a rush could cost you dearly.
If you have questions or concerns about oral agreements, written documents, unsigned documents, contracts, and the like, talk to a lawyer. For more information, to have your questions answered, and to have your concerns addressed, contact Nashville Attorney Perry A. Craft.
Perry A. Craft has dedicated his life to helping people in need. He has tried, settled, or resolved numerous civil and criminal cases in State and Federal courts, and has represented teachers and administrators before school boards, administrative judges, and the state Board of Education. Learn more about Attorney Craft.