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Contract clauses, explained in plain English

The clauses that cost people money are rarely complicated — they're just buried. Each page below explains one clause: what it means, what a reasonable version looks like, and the specific question worth asking before you sign.

Written by Byron Thomas, founder of Docly · Updated August 2026 · Not legal advice

Freelance & client contracts

Non-compete clausesWhat they restrict and how 'competitor' gets defined Scope creepThe contract language that causes it Kill fee clausesWhat you keep if a project is cancelled Unlimited revisionsWhy the round definition beats the round count Net 30 payment termsWhen the 30 days actually start Milestone paymentsSplitting a fee across stages IP assignmentWho owns the work you create Termination for convenienceEnding a contract without cause

Renting & leases

Normal wear and tearWhat a landlord can't charge you for Security deposit deductionsWhat's allowed and the deadline rules Early lease terminationWhat breaking a lease costs

Employment

At-will employmentWhat it means in an offer letter Non-compete vs non-solicitThe difference that matters

Consumer contracts

Auto-renewal clausesWhy the cancellation window is the trap Non-refundable depositsWhat makes the money unrecoverable

This is general information, not legal advice. These pages explain what contract terms typically mean. They don't tell you whether a clause is enforceable where you live. For a decision with real money attached, speak to an attorney licensed in your state.

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