Matthew Purcell quoted in The Telegraph about how to deal with late payments as a freelancer

This week, Partner and Head of Dispute Resolution, Matthew Purcell, was quoted in The Telegraph giving financial advice to freelancers dealing with late payments from a client:

"It is really important to get a financial agreement in writing in place. A reputable client should not be put off by a freelancer wanting to formalise the arrangement. Getting decent contracts drafted by a professional should be regarded as a freelancer's start-up expense and shouldn't be overlooked."

"If this isn't possible, as a minimum, any email agreement should clearly contain the scope of works, the price agreed, delivery date and any other important terms. This email should be agreed with the client, with a clear email of acceptance from the client."

Mr Purcell warned: "Don't expect a company to overtly state that they are in financial difficulty. If you suspect this is the case, try and do some digging. Companies House now offers free access to a company's filings and there are a number of 'company checkers' that can give clues as to a company's health. If a company does become insolvent while owing a freelancer money, the chance of recovering anything more than a few pence in a pound is often remote."