Seeking help on freelance contract issues

I need help.

I am a freelancer. The paper where I have done freelance work for years suddenly has corporate attorney that has said I have to sign a contract.

I don't have a problem with the idea in principle. There is some standard language about not holding the company responsible for any legal trouble that arises because of mistakes I make, but there is also a spot that says I am responsible even in cases of the "company's own negligence." I quote that because that is the exact phrase as it appears in the contract.

Have any of you had to sign contracts with similar language. I know, I know, if I have concerns I should have an attorney look at it, but for what amounts to about $40 per assignment, it is tough to justify the expense, especially if it is a routine bit of legalese.

 

If you have an attorney friend who can help then ask him about the passages that give you concern.

Just because they present a contract does not mean you have to sign it as it it is written.

 

I would be very concerned about signing that contract. They are basically saying that if you 'F' up, you're on your own. But also if they 'F' up, you can be blamed.

If the paper's editors inserted something in your story that was legally questionable, then you would be held liable, even though it's their error.

 

Cross out the offending sentence, initial it, then send the signed contract back ... betting it won't be an issue with them ...

 

Not every contract fits every job. Sometimes they'll just send you the bioilerplate edition.
You were smart to read it carefully.

Dan's right. If the paper has an issue with the crossed-out section, they'll call you to discuss it.

 

Do not bet on that.

Not saying that wouldn't happen, but you should be the one to call them to discuss it, and suggest/request that they, themselves, take out the concerning passage entirely.

Before you sign it.

 

Have to say that I've seen (and signed) many such contracts, but have never seen a clause like that ... and any revisions I've made have always been rubber stamped ... not that this one couldn't be different ...