Legally binding payment contracts

[ACMAir]

Hello,

I don't know much, if anything about law, so I'm going to resort to your help. I have a graphic design firm. I would like to have some sort of contract in regards to payment. There have been a few cases, where after creating a logo to a clients specifications, I have not received any payment afterward. In fact, they refuse to respond to emails or phone calls.

I feel like I dont really have any authority, because I don't have any form of legal contract signed.

What can I do?

Thanks!

[DerekS]

You might want to try LegalZoom, or just google with search terms particular to your needs.

Keep in mind that a contract is really only as good as the paper that it's written on. If they breach, you still have to take action to collect.

My advice is to get a deposit up front, or perhaps full payment. Offer the contract to make them feel protected and to add to your credibility. Try to take control of the situation as early as possible. Be persuasive, but not sketchy or forceful.