Having someone just sign something doesn't mean you won. In fact, if you rely solely on someones signature to make a point, you may be in for a shock should they ever contest it. There is a lot going on before, during and after the written agreement. The statues, rules and laws in regards to written agreements remain strong, but other factors are present too
WILLS FOR INSTANCE
It is required that a person be of sound mind, that they know what they are doing, that it makes sense and in some instances requires a witness or even two. Anyone signing something in bed or the hospital is highly suspect. Just getting a signature on something doesn't guarantee a win if contested. A trial has a way of bringing out many things besides signatures on a page
ITS A LOT TO TAKE IN
I don't expect people who first read a multiple page rental agreement, listing contract, loan document, or even general contract to understand the literal written words as presented. However, we did not just meet by chance and I forced you to sign all this either. Here is what I am getting at..
WE WENT OVER THIS DIDN'T WE?
I usually go over an agreement way before they are presented for signature. I do it through dialogue, questions and answers and redundancy. At some point, I introduce the controlling written reference to what we are doing and we spend time at this stage. Not time insuring they understood. NO..that is not realistic. We spend time so they remember we spent time.
AFTER A 1/2 HOUR...WE EITHER DID OR DID NOT
When it is revealed that 1/2 hour was spent instead of 3 minutes, it is harder for the person alleging anything contrary to the agreement to remain credible. Memory of taking the time and... after time taken, then signing that we have met and discussed what we are doing is pretty hard to deny later on
WHAT'S THE RUSH?
Conclusion: I don't rush anyone into anything. I do make it part of my business model to discuss where we are, what we are doing, how we will proceed and the possible outcomes. This meeting of the minds is what will govern and prevail and not some shrewd after the fact denial fudging...
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