If you were in business during the pandemic, you are probably already very familiar with the Force Majure contract clause. But if, by some special blessing, it did not come up for your business in the last few years, let me explain why you want to understand it and, definitely, include it in your agreements.

In brief, it’s a legal clause that frees both parties (yay, for protecting you and your clients) from contractual obligations and duties if an extraordinary event prevents one or both of you from performing. If we want to get super technical “Force Majure” is not a doctrine in common law, meaning it is not a rule that if followed, instead it is a handy title for a common contract provision.

Now if we are business friends, I know that you aren’t making these legal mistakes, but if you’re new to the game or just put legal squarely on the back burner, you are going to want to look at this list and make sure you aren’t making any of these super common legal mistakes and putting your brilliant biz at unnecessary risk.

One of the best things about the Internet is that literally everyone, everywhere can be your client.

That’s exciting! I love looking at my site analytics and seeing which countries light up for visitors, don’t you? But the downside to all this global interconnectedness is that rules and regulations for countries outside of your own often apply to your business.

What?! Quelle Surpise!

Yup, if clients or customers can access your business outside of your home country, you may be subject to the laws of the client’s home nation. A well-written website terms and conditions statement can certainly help, as would a solid terms and conditions of sale agreement, and a carefully written client agreement.