Practical tools before you sign or dispute
This page gathers ready-to-use checklists and quick references built for private individuals and small business owners in France who need to review a contract, handle a disagreement, or complete a transaction. Each item is written to be actioned in minutes, without legal jargon, so you can spot problems early and know what to ask before committing. Use them as a first pass, then bring the flagged points to a consultation for a proper review under French law.
Contract review checklist
- Confirm the exact identity of both parties, including SIRET or company registration numbers, and check the signatory is authorised to bind the business.
- Read the object of the contract (l'objet) and verify it matches what was actually agreed verbally or by email.
- Locate the price, payment terms, due dates, and any late-payment penalties (pénalités de retard) or interest clauses.
- Check the duration, renewal terms, and the notice period required to terminate (préavis) so you are not locked in by automatic renewal.
- Read the termination and cancellation clauses, including any early-exit fees or conditions for suspension of the contract.
- Identify limitation of liability, warranty, and indemnity clauses, and note anything that shifts risk onto you.
- Find the governing law and jurisdiction clause (tribunal compétent) and confirm any dispute would be heard in a convenient court.
- Check for annexes, general terms (CGV/CGU), and referenced documents that are legally part of the contract even if attached separately.
Dispute preparation checklist
- Gather the signed contract, all annexes, and any prior versions to establish exactly what was agreed.
- Assemble a chronological file of emails, messages, invoices, delivery notes, and payment records that support your position.
- Write a clear timeline of events, noting dates, amounts, and any promises made verbally or in writing.
- Identify precisely what obligation you believe was breached and what financial or practical harm it caused you.
- Send a written formal notice (mise en demeure) by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt, stating the problem and a deadline to remedy it.
- Explore amicable resolution first — negotiation, mediation, or conciliation — as courts in France often expect this before litigation.
- Note the applicable time limits (prescription), commonly five years for civil and commercial claims, so you do not lose your rights.
- Book a consultation before responding to any legal threat or signing a settlement, so you understand the consequences.
Quick reference
- In France a contract can be valid without a signed paper document, but written proof makes disputes far easier to resolve.
- The general limitation period for most civil and commercial claims is five years from when you knew, or should have known, of the problem.
- A mise en demeure (formal notice to perform) is usually the required first step before claiming damages or terminating for breach.
- Consumer contracts often carry a 14-day withdrawal period (droit de rétractation) for distance and off-premises sales.
- Many disputes must go through mandatory mediation or conciliation attempts before a court will accept the case.
- General terms and conditions (CGV) referenced in a contract are binding even when supplied as a separate document.
Do I need a lawyer to review a contract before signing?
Not always, but a review is strongly advised for anything with significant financial commitment, long duration, or unusual clauses. Our checklists help you screen a contract first; a consultation then focuses on the specific points you flagged, which saves time and cost.
What is a mise en demeure and when should I send one?
It is a formal written notice, usually sent by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt, asking the other party to fulfil their obligation by a set deadline. It is often a legal prerequisite before claiming damages or terminating a contract for breach, and it creates a clear record that you gave the other party a chance to comply.
How long do I have to bring a claim in France?
For most civil and commercial matters the limitation period is five years, counted from the moment you became aware of the issue. Some situations have shorter or longer periods, so it is best to check your specific case early rather than assume the deadline is far off.
Can most business disputes be resolved without going to court?
Yes. Many disputes are settled through direct negotiation, mediation, or conciliation, and French courts frequently expect parties to attempt an amicable resolution first. Litigation is usually the last resort when other routes have failed.
What should I bring to a legal consultation?
Bring the contract and its annexes, relevant correspondence, invoices, a written timeline of events, and a short summary of what outcome you want. The more organised your documents, the more focused and useful the consultation will be.
Are these checklists a substitute for legal advice?
No. They are practical tools to help you prepare and spot issues, not tailored advice on your situation. Every contract and dispute has specific facts, so use the checklists to get ready and then request a consultation for guidance you can rely on.
Guides
How to read a contract before you sign
A plain-language guide to reading contracts: key sections, common terms and what to check before you commit to an agreement.
Common contract clauses explained simply
Understand the most common contract clauses, from termination to liability, in clear language so you know what you're agreeing to.
How business disputes are usually resolved
An overview of how contract and business disputes are typically resolved, from negotiation to mediation and litigation.
What to check in a small business transaction
Key points to review during a small business transaction, from due diligence to agreements, explained in plain language.
Breach of contract: the basics explained
What counts as a breach of contract, what your options are and how these situations are commonly handled, in clear terms.
How to prepare for a legal consultation
Practical steps to prepare for a legal consultation about a contract, dispute or transaction so you get useful answers.