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Heads of Agreement

2 signers
1 Licensor
2 Licensee
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When correctly drafted, a heads of agreement is an initial, non-binding document that consists of a list of clauses or terms and conditions that are currently agreed upon between parties in a proposed agreement. Generally used for negotiating business transactions, such as buying a business or licensing, it is intended that a party signs the agreement at pre-contracted stages during the ongoing negotiations and eventually enter into a binding agreement.

heads of agreement template

Understanding Heads of Agreement Document

When negotiating a heads of agreement document, it is important to remember that these documents do not contain legally binding terms and can only be used as a starting point for further negotiations.

One common way to ensure that the subsequent formal agreement is upheld is to include particulars and record proposed terms during business discussions.

Additionally, it may be helpful to have a professional provide legal advice or review the document before proceeding with a final agreement to confirm accuracy and enforceability.

Heads of agreement can help make a future agreement legally binding with another entity. It functions as an agreement of understanding helpful for preserving records and possible provisions of a formal commercial agreement.

If a proposed agreement contains what both parties agree on, you can ensure that executing a legally binding contract will go smoothly, minimizing possible conflict and a lengthy legal process.

Usually, head agreements are designed only to provide a basic agreement for transactions or partnerships. This takes place during the negotiation or a pre-contractural phase.

By design, the heads of agreement cannot cover the entire details required of a formal, legally binding agreement. But its lack of detailed information is its strength; there is little likelihood that both sides disagree.

If the two parties come to a shared understanding and have agreed to a heads of agreement, the next stage involves the involvement of attorneys and accountants.

Contents of a Heads of Agreement Template

There is no standard template or format for heads of agreement. However, some common sections can help define a proposed transaction’s scope and focus. These commonly include:

  • Parties involved – this usually includes the names of each party, along with any other legal entities involved in the agreement (such as company subsidiaries).
  • Proposed transactions/objectives – this section should clearly outline the nature and intent of the transaction, including any terms or conditions involved.
  • Timing requirements – a clear timeline can help to ensure that both parties are aware of their respective obligations throughout the negotiation process. This may include deadlines for signing documents, date estimates for delivery or completion, etc.
  • Licensed items – in the case of licensing, this section should outline any licenses or licenses that are to be provided and are necessary for the transaction to take place.
  • Financial considerations – this may include information on fees, payments, reimbursements, interest rates, etc.
  • Critical legal or commercial clauses – these can help address key issues such as confidentiality and restrictions.

Depending on the nature of the transaction being negotiated and the scope of the agreement, you may also want to include other provisions related to intellectual property rights, insurance requirements, reputation management obligations, governing law or jurisdiction clauses, etc.

Common Law

Heads of agreement templates are usually applicable across Commonwealth countries. In Canada, the equivalent of heads is a letter of intent. In the United Kingdom, for instance, it is typical for transactions in the real estate industry, including the sale of land and the purchase of homes.

Purpose and nature of a proposed agreement

The agreements head primarily acts as a first communication document. Moreover, it serves to facilitate negotiations. The exchange of heads terms is a reliable way to discuss a particular deal with no legal obligations. This also serves as documentation for all negotiated terms.

Supporting conditions for this non-formal agreement

A heads of agreement could also serve as an instrument to provide certain basic contract conditions on legal documents. The terms document may include a confidentiality agreement or exclusivity terms that prohibit one party from attempting to secure the same with another person.

Clear communication

Heads of arrangement put key transactions on paper. It leaves no room for disagreement among the parties. It can also help track change in negotiations.

FAQ About Heads of Agreement Forms

A heads of agreement is drafted in good faith. This non-binding document lays out a proposal agreement. Memorandums of understanding are usually used as documentation of goodwill and trust between parties. Generally, memorandums of agreement are legally binding, even though they satisfy vague elements of the contract.

A heads of agreement, on the other hand, is typically used in negotiating and documenting a potential contractual agreement. This can express a lack of commitment or indicate pre-existing confidentiality agreements between parties. A heads of agreement also sets out all critical terms of a proposed contract, including financial terms and timelines.

Typically, heads of agreements are not legally binding, as they are designed to be non-binding documents used for facilitating negotiations.
The basic requirements for this agreement must include a mutual acceptance expressed through a valid offer and acceptance, sufficient consideration, capability, and legality.

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