[header] How to write a legal contract [title] Determine whether you need a contract. [step] If you are exchanging something of significant value with someone, such as your labor or services, intellectual property, or material goods, you should have a contract in place. [substeps] For many people, common situations that involve contracts include purchasing a home, selling or buying a car, or beginning employment. 
Other common situations could include hiring a construction crew to remodel your house, offering your services for a certain period of time, or publishing a creative work, such as a book. [title] Be aware of the basic requirements of all contracts.