Recent Answers to Commission Agreement Law Questions
Can a commission agreement be enforced if it was not signed by both parties?
Business Contracts
Commission Agreement
California
I recently entered into a commission agreement with a company where I would receive a percentage of sales for bringing in new clients. However, I just realized that the agreement was never signed by the company, although I did sign it. I have already started bringing in clients and generating sales, but now I am concerned about whether the agreement can be enforced without the company's signature. I want to know if I can still legally claim my commission based on the terms outlined in the agreement.
Tabetha H.
While unsigned contracts can create uncertainty, your commission agreement may still be enforceable despite lacking the company's signature. Courts often recognize contracts as valid when parties act as if an agreement exists. Your performance (bringing in clients) and the company's acceptance of those benefits (receiving sales) creates an implied acceptance through conduct. This falls under legal principles like part performance and estoppel, which prevent companies from benefiting from your work while avoiding payment obligations. You likely have a strong claim to enforce the commission terms, especially since you've already fulfilled your obligations and the company has accepted the resulting benefits.
Can you please explain the legal requirements for a commission agreement?
Business Contracts
Commission Agreement
California
I recently started working as a sales representative for a small company, and my compensation is based on a commission agreement. However, I am unsure about the legal requirements and obligations that should be included in this agreement to ensure that both parties are protected. I want to make sure that the agreement is fair and compliant with any applicable laws or regulations, so I am seeking clarification on the legal requirements for a commission agreement.
Rhea d.
If the company is retaining your services as an independent sales rep, you need an agreement that carefully describes the business terms. This includes how the commission is calculated based on sales, payment terms, materials provided to sell the product, training, and territory. It should also contain terms regarding the duration, renewal, and termination of the agreement. More importantly, the agreement should have terms that protect you, such as limitation of liability, indemnification, and disclaimers/no warranty, in case the company tries to hold you responsible if something goes wrong (e.g., if you misrepresent the product or if they produce a defective product). The agreement should clearly describe the responsibilities of both the sales rep and the company.