In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Charles Wilson, Solicitor in the Corporate & Commercial team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Andrew Kavanagh, Partner in the team, to share their top three contract tips for startups and growing businesses.

When you’re launching a new venture, cash flow is tight and every pound counts. Investing in legal advice can feel like a luxury, but as Charles and Andrew explain, getting a few key provisions right from the outset can deliver significant value and protect your business from costly mistakes down the line.

Charles and Andrew also address a common startup dilemma: how to balance the need for robust terms and conditions with limited budgets. They discuss why proportionate, tailored advice is more valuable than copying complex corporate contracts and why relying solely on online templates or AI-generated terms may not give you the protection you think you have.

Whether you’re launching a startup, reviewing your existing terms, or advising a growing business, this episode provides practical guidance on where to focus your legal spend for maximum impact.

Chapter Markers

(01:00) – The challenge of legal budgets for new businesses

(02:00) – Tip #1: Indemnities for cost recovery explained

(04:00) – Tip #2: Limitation of liability and managing risk

(05:30) – Tip #3: Severance clauses as a “get out of jail free card”

(07:00) – Practical advice: Getting proportionate legal support

Useful Links

Connect with Charles Wilson on LinkedIn

Reach out to Andrew Kavanagh on LinkedIn

Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website