Creating a well-written contract that provides value and benefits

For churches in Tennessee, the value and presence of written contracts is important to provide protection to the organization’s fundamental components. With clearly articulated guidelines in place, church facilities can operate with the confidence that their agreed-upon terms are being honored.

Often, the challenging part for churches is figuring out which vital components of a contract must be considered. Others may have difficulty deciphering whether or not the benefits will provide a desirable advantage when compared with the costs of executing a contract. According to Chron, a contract embodies several different components including the following:

  • The intention by one or both parties to form a legal relationship.
  • An offer
  • An acceptance of the proposed offer.
  • Some type of consideration.

Contracts may not function legally if they are written deceptively or with undue influence. Before a contract is put into place, it is imperative that both sides understand their responsibilities and obligations.

Chron also suggests that some potential benefits of having a contract in place include clarity on subjects related to the relationship and lessened risk factors. A contract can aid in reducing contention and conflict that often results when parties are confused about something. The convenience of having a contract makes it easy for both parties to reference their agreement should anything ever be in question. With less confusion, the parties who have agreed to the contract can focus their attention on furthering their initiative rather than dealing with avoidable conflict along the way. Often, an increase in focus means a more productive outcome.