The pressure points
Substitution, control, mutuality, financial risk, equipment, integration, and exclusivity matter more than labels. A contract that says contractor but behaves like employment remains risky.
Guide
IR35 contract review checklist
A practical checklist for reviewing contractor agreements against IR35 risk indicators.
Document evidence
The written terms should align with real working practices. Milestones, acceptance criteria, genuine substitution, and limited control should be visible in both the contract and operating process.
The Counsel workflow
Run an IR35 review, export the status notes, and use the solicitor brief when the arrangement is high-value or contested.