In short, the order a contract is signed does not affect its legal status. Putting all the elements of a contract template into a legal document makes all the terms clearer for the independent contractor and the client. These could be present in an oral agreement, or done by email. These three elements make a contract template into a legal contract. A business buying app dev services from an independent contractor according to a project plan and delivery deadline, is a legally binding contract. A family member saying, 'I'll pay you back next week,' is almost certainly not a legally binding agreement. Finally, there must the intention to enter into a legally binding agreement.For most freelancers, this is where money comes into a legal contract.
In short, someone must pay for something that is done for them or sold to them. There must be some exchange of economic value.Acceptance must be positive, and not 'silent.' Acceptance must be unqualified and final. One party must make an offer that is accepted by the other party. There must be agreement between the two parties to create a legally binding contract.
There are specific elements that qualify an agreement as legally binding. Lawyers don't make contracts valid, people do. Let's put aside some common misconceptions.
