Just to add to what has been stated, In my opinion I would prefer a written agreement instead of verbal. I believe that whenever there is a mutual understanding of what is decided, then legal issues can be prevented or least have documented evidence when there is an infraction. Writing a formal agreement involves the review and assistance of legal counsel during the contract formation process. If the party the contractor intends to enter a business agreement with is not willing to involve legal counsel, it raises the important question: What are they hiding? For example, a written agreement formally prevents one party from making the same verbal agreement with multiple other parties, protecting the business arrangement.

-Nicole