Freelance Contract Red Flag Checker

Does the contract include a kill fee (payment if client cancels)?

Is IP/ownership clearly defined — specifying who owns the final work?

Are revision rounds/scope explicitly specified?

Does the contract include a non-compete clause?

Is a payment schedule clearly defined (dates, milestones, or net terms)?

Does the contract use "work for hire" language assigning all rights to the client?

Is there a late payment penalty or interest clause if the client pays late?

Is there a mandatory arbitration clause (disputes resolved outside court)?

Is an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) required?

Is there a liability cap limiting your financial exposure?

Is there a change order / scope change process defined?

Is the governing law/jurisdiction defined?

Does the contract auto-renew without explicit notice?

Does the contract allow the client to withhold payment for "dissatisfaction" without objective criteria?

Does the contract define termination rights for both parties (not just the client)?