Home Blog Contract Review Checklist: Easy Process to Follow

Contract Review Checklist: Easy Process to Follow

Jump to Section

What is a Contract Review?

When contract lawyers complete a contract review, the goal is to ensure that their clients benefit from the terms of the legal contract. Lawyers typically have a process they follow which can be in the form of a contract review checklist. A contract lawyer will read each line of the document to make sure the terms are fair and there are no loopholes.

Contract review also confirms the legal validity of all terms of the legal agreement and includes an in-depth analysis. If you choose to forego the recommendation to review a contract, you could find yourself locked into an agreement that you’re not happy with.

Here is more about contract review.

What is the Contract Review Process?

Completing a contract review is a vital process any time you need to make a new agreement. Making sure you follow the right steps to the contract review process is the only way to ensure that the terms and conditions of the contract are in your best interest. Since contract reviews can seem intimidating, you might be surprised that the process is simpler than you might think.

Here is a quick rundown of the contract review process:

  1. Evaluate and understand contract terms
  2. Ensure legal validity
  3. Capture full understanding of any risks

Check out this article to learn more about the contract review process.

Contract Review Checklist

If you’re looking for an easy way to perform your next contract review, we have a solution for you. Coming prepared with a contract review checklist is a great way to make sure you complete all the necessary steps of the process. It also helps you stay organized, which helps save time and eliminate any careless mistakes along the way.

Here are six quick steps you can take to perform a thorough contract review, with or without the assistance of a contract review lawyer.

Meet some lawyers on our platform

Heather B.

55 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Stephen R.

15 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Caroline N.

1 project on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Daniel R.

311 projects on CC
CC verified
View Profile

Step One: Examine Important Terms and Clauses

You need to go through the entire contract with a fine-tooth comb, but the first step to any thorough contract review is examining key terms and clauses throughout. This is because certain portions of the contract are more important, such as:

  • Terms and conditions – the basic rules of a contract
  • Indemnification clause – also known as a liability clause; defines who pays for losses and damages

Ensuring these terms are clear and that you are in agreement with them helps protect your interests in the agreement, which is why this step is vital to any contract review.

Step Two: Check Termination and Renewal Rules

Contracts typically encompass an agreement for a certain, predetermined amount of time. This means that there will be rules and regulations for termination of the contract or renewal of the terms. Make sure you agree and understand these rules during your contract review.

Step Three: Audit Contract Language

Contracts can contain some tricky language and sometimes, that can make the terms confusing. Set some time aside to read the entire contract in full, paying attention to any confusing or misleading wording that might be included. Keep a list of these items to discuss with the other contract parties and don’t be afraid to request revisions – that’s what the contract review process is all about.

Step Four: Review Default Regulations

What happens if a contract party doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain? Contract default regulations answer this question. Review the rules surrounding default occurrences. This helps to ensure that you not only understand what could happen if you fail to perform your duties, but also what legal recourse you might have if someone else does.

Step Five: Confirm Key Dates

Timelines, deadlines, and any other important dates should be clearly stated in your contract. It’s essential that you are aware of what these dates are and that you are confident that the schedule works for you. Carefully review these dates to make sure they work with your schedule before signing anything.

You should also make sure that there is a specific procedure to follow if there are any changes in key dates or schedules. Unexpected events are bound to occur, so having that flexibility built into the contract protects all parties involved.

Step Six: Look for Blank Spaces

Whether you are using a contract template to help you draft your agreement, or you’re reviewing an agreement that someone else has drawn up, you must look for any blank spaces throughout. This could lead to an incomplete contract, which could result in a contract that is not legally sound.

Check out this webpage for a complete checklist that you can use to make your next contract review job a breeze.

4 Requirements of a Valid Contract

A huge part of the contract review process is ensuring that all the terms needed are present to make the agreement valid. Contracts are legally binding agreements, and must include certain key aspects in order to be legally valid.

Here are the top four most important requirements every contract needs to be valid:

  1. Offer and acceptance : an offer must be made by one party and accepted by another
  2. Consideration : something valuable must be exchanged, and both parties to the contract must have some sort of obligation under it
  3. Capacity : both parties must be of sound mind and able to consent to the contract
  4. Legality : contracts cannot contain clauses that require any unlawful acts and must abide by state and federal law, no exceptions

Learn more about the characteristics of a valid contract by checking out this article.

Contract Review Fees

Contract review cost varies based on a few different factors. One of the biggest things that impacts the cost of a contract review is who completes it. If you decide to complete the checklist on your own, for example, you will incur a much smaller fee than you would hiring a contract review lawyer.

Even though doing a contract review on your own can have less of an impact on your pocketbook, it could have detrimental effects. Since professional contract lawyers are well-versed in the language that valid contracts must have, it is much easier for them to decipher whether a contract is in your best interest.

They also possess valuable knowledge about state and federal law, so it is easier for them to spot a clause or requirement that could make the entire contract void.

Who Does Contract Review?

Contract review services are typically provided by experienced lawyers that specialize drafting and review contracts. Sometimes these lawyers are known as transactional lawyers. Their main job is to help their clients through transactions, which typically involves negotiating contracts to make sure their clients get the best deals.

If you are considering how to find a lawyer to help with contract review, we would recommend finding a lawyer with experience in your industry that has helped negotiate transactions for similar clients. You can use ContractsCounsel’s marketplace to help you find a lawyer as well.

Post a project on ContractsCounsel today to get connected with contract review lawyers who are experts in helping their clients sign favorable contracts. All lawyers are vetted by our team and reviewed by users on the platform.


ContractsCounsel is not a law firm, and this post should not be considered and does not contain legal advice. To ensure the information and advice in this post are correct, sufficient, and appropriate for your situation, please consult a licensed attorney. Also, using or accessing ContractsCounsel's site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and ContractsCounsel.


Meet some of our Lawyers

Thomas S. on ContractsCounsel
View Thomas
5.0 (10)
Member Since:
August 11, 2023

Thomas S.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Boulder, Colorado
31 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CO, NY
University of Colorado

28+ years experience. Licensed in Colorado and New York. Areas of expertise: estate planning, wills and trusts; trademark law; patent law; contracts and licensing; small business organization and counseling.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Thomas was very knowledgeable and is great to work with! Thank you very much - looking forward working together again in the future!"

David L. on ContractsCounsel
View David
5.0 (4)
Member Since:
July 11, 2023

David L.

Managing Member
Free Consultation
El Paso Texas
28 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NM, TX
Texas Tech University School of Law

Experienced real estate, business, and tax practitioner, representing start up and established businesses with formation, contracts, and operational issues.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"David was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful, he made the entire process smooth and stress free."

Jennifer W. on ContractsCounsel
View Jennifer
5.0 (4)
Member Since:
May 24, 2023

Jennifer W.

Immigration Attorney
New York
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CT
Quinnipiac University Law School

I am an Immigration attorney specializing in business, corporate, and family immigration. I have served the immigrant (EB1A/B/C, NIWs, and PERM) and non immigrant (H, L, O, TN, E) needs for individuals, families, start-up companies, and some of the largest financial and commercial companies. I have experience with adjustment of status and consular processing. Please let me know how I can serve your immigration needs.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Jennifer has been an exceptional lawyer throughout my EB1-A application process. Her kindness and dedication have been evident every step of the way. She has provided invaluable guidance and support, alleviating many of my concerns and uncertainties. Now, as we await the result from USCIS, I am filled with excitement and confidence, knowing that Jennifer has done everything possible to ensure the success of my application. I highly recommend her services to anyone seeking expert legal assistance"

Nicholas M. on ContractsCounsel
View Nicholas
5.0 (46)
Member Since:
June 1, 2023

Nicholas M.

President/Attorney
Free Consultation
Providence, Rhode Island
16 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CT, MA, NC, RI, VT
The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law

Nicholas Matlach is a cybersecurity expert (CISSP) and an attorney who is dedicated to helping small businesses succeed. He is a client-focused professional who has a deep understanding of the challenges that small businesses face in the digital age. He also provides legal counsel to small businesses on a variety of issues, including formation, intellectual property, contracts, and employment law.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Enjoyed his demeanor. Professional yet down to earth. The document created for me was very explicit and easy to read. I would recommend :)"

Steven W. on ContractsCounsel
View Steven
4.9 (20)
Member Since:
June 2, 2023

Steven W.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Texas & North Carolina
5 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NC, NY, TX
North Carolina Central University

Attorney Steven Wax is ardent about helping his clients. Whether creating personalized estate plans, drafting and negotiating contracts or other legal matters. Steven’s goal is to assist and counsel his clients to protect them and their loved ones. Steven grew up on Long Island, New York. He attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst earning a BS in Sport Management. He earned his paralegal certificate at Duke University and earned his Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law in Durham, NC. Steven has an extensive legal career in the life science sector, working for some of the world’s largest Contract Research Organizations since 2013. Steven has negotiated a broad range of contracts for both businesses and individuals. Steven participated in the NCCU Elder Law Project, where he prepared wills, durable powers of attorney, living wills, and health care powers of attorneys for low/fixed income clients in Durham and surrounding counties. Steven finds meaningful ways to share his skills and passion with his community. Steven volunteers his time to Wills for Heroes, which provides no-cost estate planning documents to first responders and their families, through the NC Bar Foundation.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Steven was very helpful and informative throughout the process of reviewing my divorce decree, and he completed the project promptly. Thank you, Steven!"

Angela H. on ContractsCounsel
View Angela
4.3 (1)
Member Since:
May 23, 2023

Angela H.

Attorney/Owner
Free Consultation
Pennsylvania
16 Yrs Experience
Licensed in DC, PA
University of Dayton

Angela Hayden is an accomplished and driven attorney with a diverse professional background that sets her apart. Having served as a former Assistant Public Defender in Allegheny County, Angela acquired invaluable expertise in navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. Her trial experience spans a wide range of cases, from minor retail theft to complex criminal homicide, demonstrating her ability to deliver successful outcomes for her clients. Prior to her focus on criminal defense, Angela honed her skills in public policy and political consulting through her work with both the Pennsylvania and United States House of Representatives. This experience provided her with a deep understanding of the intricacies of public policy and the ability to offer strategic guidance to clients. Angela's career also took her to a civil defense firm, where she traveled across the country, defending clients in litigation. This experience enhanced her ability to handle complex civil matters and strengthened her litigation skills. In addition to her expertise in criminal defense and civil litigation, Angela has demonstrated her proficiency in employment law, providing guidance and consultation to small businesses and non-profit organizations. Her keen insight into employment law matters ensures that businesses operate within legal boundaries while fostering a positive work environment. Furthermore, Angela is a licensed realtor, well-versed in residential real estate transactions. This additional knowledge allows her to offer comprehensive legal support to clients involved in real estate matters, ensuring their interests are protected throughout the process. Angela holds a degree from Hampton University and obtained her Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law. She is pursuing a Master of Business Administration. She is licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia, demonstrating her commitment to providing exceptional legal services in multiple jurisdictions. With her extensive experience and passion for achieving favorable outcomes for her clients, Angela Hayden is a dedicated advocate ready to guide you through your legal journey.

Don K. on ContractsCounsel
View Don
Member Since:
May 22, 2023

Don K.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Remote
4 Yrs Experience
Licensed in AL
Lincoln Memorial University

Oliver Keene is not your typical attorney. With a personal touch and a passion for helping others, he goes above and beyond to provide exceptional legal services. Born and raised in the heart of the Appalachian coalfields, Oliver understands the value of hard work and perseverance. His small-town upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of community and a commitment to making a difference in people's lives. Oliver's journey in the legal field began with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Bluefield University. He went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Lincoln Memorial University - Duncan School of Law, where he excelled in his studies and developed a strong foundation in law. Throughout his career, Oliver has gained invaluable experience working as a public defender, an attorney advisor for the Small Business Administration, and in various legal roles. With a focus on estate planning and business law, Oliver is dedicated to helping individuals and families protect their assets, plan for the future, and navigate the complexities of the legal system. His approachable demeanor, attention to detail, and genuine care for his clients set him apart. Oliver's clients can trust that he will go the extra mile to ensure their legal needs are met with the utmost professionalism and personalized service. Outside of his legal practice, Oliver enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, exploring the great outdoors, and indulging in his passion for hunting and fishing. His commitment to serving military families is evident in his offering of discounted services as a token of gratitude for their sacrifices. When you choose Oliver Keene as your attorney, you're not just hiring a legal professional - you're gaining a trusted advisor and a compassionate advocate. With Oliver by your side, you can have confidence that your legal matters will be handled with the highest level of expertise and care.

Dean S. on ContractsCounsel
View Dean
Member Since:
May 22, 2023

Dean S.

Attorney
Free Consultation
San Diego, California
17 Yrs Experience
Licensed in CA
University of Michigan

Dean represents client in all manners of tax controversy and provides comprehensive business consulting to corporations, LLCs, and non-profits. He has worked with multi-national companies, but most enjoys assisting small businesses with all legal matters from formation to dissolution. Dean routinely represents individuals and businesses before the IRS and various state taxation agencies. From audits to appeals, he works closely with his clients to reach favorable outcomes and beneficial resolutions. Though he assists many clients in his home state of California, Dean values working with a diverse clientele throughout the country.

Meagan K. on ContractsCounsel
View Meagan
Member Since:
May 23, 2023

Meagan K.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Charlottesville, Virginia
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in VA
George Mason University School of Law

Meagan Kirchner has nearly a decade of experience in Immigration law. She has significant experience working on H-2B immigration matters. Her practice also focuses on business immigration, particularly representing corporate clients pursuing H, E3, TN, O, and L nonimmigrant classifications, as well as lawful permanent residence (EB-1A, NIW, EB-1C). Meagan has represented clients in a variety of industries including agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, IT, engineering, and finance. Meagan has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from George Mason University and a Juris Doctor degree from the George Mason University School of Law. She is licensed to practice law in Virginia and is also a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

Barbara M. on ContractsCounsel
View Barbara
Member Since:
May 23, 2023

Barbara M.

Attorney/Owner
Free Consultation
Massachusetts
35 Yrs Experience
Licensed in MA, NY
Albany Law School

In 1991, Barbara Markessinis graduated cum laude from Albany Law School in Albany, New York. Shortly thereafter, Barbara was admitted to practice in New York State and in the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York. In 1997, Barbara was admitted to practice in Massachusetts and in April of 2009 she was admitted to the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. After graduating from law school, Barbara worked in private practice in the Albany, New York area and for Sneeringer, Monahan, Provost & Redgrave Title Agency, Inc. before joining the New York State Division for Youth and the New York State Attorney General's Real Property Bureau as a Senior Attorney. During her tenure with the Division for Youth, Attorney Markessinis found herself in Manhattan Family Court in front of Judge Judy! A career highlight for sure! After admission to the Massachusetts Bar, Barbara returned to private practice in the Berkshires and eventually started her own firm in June of 2006. Attorney Markessinis offers legal services in elder law, estate planning and administration/probate, family law, limited assistance representation (LAR), real estate and landlord tenant disputes. In 2016, after a family member found themselves in need of long term care, Attorney Markessinis’ launched her elder law practice. Through this experience, Attorney Markessinis discovered that the process of selecting a long term care facility and/or caregiver, applying for MassHealth and preserving an applicant’s assets are serious issues faced by many people every day. This area of the law is Barbara’s passion and she offers her legal services to families who find themselves in need of an elder law attorney. Attorney Markessinis is part of the Volunteer Legal Clinic in the Berkshire Probate & Family Court and has provided limited free legal services to patients and families at Moments House cancer support center in Pittsfield. She currently serves as a Hearing Committee Member for the MA Board of Bar Overseers and is a member of the Berkshire County and Massachusetts Bar Associations, Berkshire County Estate Planning Council (BCEPC). Attorney Markessinis is also the host of WUPE Talks Law. She also serves on the Town of Hancock Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board.

Jocelyne U. on ContractsCounsel
View Jocelyne
Member Since:
May 30, 2023

Jocelyne U.

Attortney
Free Consultation
Las Vegas, Nevada
24 Yrs Experience
Licensed in MI, NV
University of Detroit Mercy

Jocelyne Uy graduated from law school in 2002 where she began her career in insurance defense where she practiced a wide range of issues relating to insurance policies and claims. Identifying a need for representation for those working cross border, Jocelyne understood the unique interplay of the laws of Canada and the U.S. and started her first firm in Michigan focusing on Canadian American immigration and tax law. Jocelyne and her partner realize that Nevada residents continuously face challenges in finding affordable and accessible representation to assist with their debt issues. Because of these challenges and continuous shifting economy, they are committed to assisting anyone who finds themselves struggling to handle the debt and credit cycle that often feels hopeless and endless. Jocelyne's firm has assisted clients in post-COVID financial crisis ranging from credit card debt, student loan debt, and COVID unemployment repayment hearings.

Find the best lawyer for your project

Browse Lawyers Now

Quick, user friendly and one of the better ways I've come across to get ahold of lawyers willing to take new clients.

View Trustpilot Review

Need help with a legal contract?

Post Your Project

Get Free Bids to Compare

Hire Your Lawyer

CONTRACT LAWYERS BY TOP CITIES
See All Business Lawyers

Contracts Counsel was incredibly helpful and easy to use. I submitted a project for a lawyer's help within a day I had received over 6 proposals from qualified lawyers. I submitted a bid that works best for my business and we went forward with the project.

View Trustpilot Review

I never knew how difficult it was to obtain representation or a lawyer, and ContractsCounsel was EXACTLY the type of service I was hoping for when I was in a pinch. Working with their service was efficient, effective and made me feel in control. Thank you so much and should I ever need attorney services down the road, I'll certainly be a repeat customer.

View Trustpilot Review

I got 5 bids within 24h of posting my project. I choose the person who provided the most detailed and relevant intro letter, highlighting their experience relevant to my project. I am very satisfied with the outcome and quality of the two agreements that were produced, they actually far exceed my expectations.

View Trustpilot Review

How It Works

Post Your Project

Get Free Bids to Compare

Hire Your Lawyer

Want to speak to someone?

Get in touch below and we will schedule a time to connect!

Request a call

Find lawyers and attorneys by city