[N.B. This contract is very general and is not intended to cover all possible circumstances. You may add or remove sections as needed. It should be used sensibly - this is what we should be aiming for. For example, if you are a new translator, you may have to accept the agency’s terms until you have established yourself. It also may not be a good idea to send out a contract for every $50-$100 job. However, if your client is an individual and not an agency, then a contract is a must. If the work entails special legal issues, such as ownership of the copyright of a book, seek the advice of a lawyer.]
The undersigned _________________________________________
of ______________________________________________________
hereby agrees to contract with __________________________
of ______________________________________________________
for the following translation/interpretation services:
from ________________________ into _______________________
at the rate of ______ per word or at the hourly rate of _______
In the case of large translations or those done for foreign clients or agencies, payment of _______% of the estimated cost will be made before the work will begin.
The Translator agrees (does not agree) to do formatting, layout, or desk-top publishing of the text at no extra cost (at the rate of _______ per hour).
Date of completion is _____________________, with the understanding that any changes in the source text once the translation is in progress will be counted as additional text and charged at the same rate and may require an extension.
Should the contracted work be withdrawn by the Client/Agency or not materialize, a fee of __________ will be paid by the Client/Agency to the Translator.
Each party to this Agreement will have the right to terminate said contract, provided that _____ (weeks/months) written notice is given in advance and payment is made on the work completed. The completed translation will be returned to:
Payment is due __ upon completion __ within 30 days ______ other
The Client or Agency shall indemnify and hold harmless the Translator against all damages, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) sustained by the Translator in connection with any claim, suit, or proceeding based on or arising out of the underlying material provided by the Client. If so requested by the Translator, the Client shall assume full responsibility for the defense and settlement of such claim or action.