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.
By The Counsel editorial deskReviewed against primary legislation and case law for England & WalesLast reviewed 15 June 2026How we source this →
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.
Employment
Employment contract review (England & Wales)
How to review an employment contract under the law of England & Wales — what to check before you sign, and the clauses that quietly cost you later.
Employment
Redundancy rights check (England & Wales)
A plain-English check of your redundancy rights in England & Wales — fair process, consultation, redundancy pay, and the warning signs of an unfair selection.
Employment
Unfair dismissal: your options in England & Wales
What counts as unfair dismissal in England & Wales, the time limits that catch people out, and how to prepare a grievance or early-conciliation letter.