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Can I modify a contract after both parties sign it?

Yes, you can modify a signed contract—but only if both parties agree to the change in writing. This is an important distinction that many people get wrong, and understanding it can save you from legal headaches down the road.

Why oral agreements don't work

Once a contract is signed, the parties have agreed to specific terms. If you and the other party verbally agree to change something, that conversation likely won't hold up in court. Even if you both genuinely meant what you said, an oral modification is hard to prove and rarely enforceable. Someone could always claim the conversation never happened or that they didn't agree to the change.

This is why written documentation matters. It creates a clear record of what was agreed to and when.

How to properly modify a signed contract

The safest way to modify a contract is through a written amendment. Here's what that process looks like:

Draft the modification. Write down exactly what's changing. Be specific about which clause or section is being modified, and clearly state the new terms. Don't leave anything vague or open to interpretation.

Get it in writing. Put the modification in a formal document. This can be a separate amendment agreement, or it can be a brief written memo signed by both parties. What matters is that the change is documented.

Have both parties sign. Everyone who signed the original contract should sign the modification. This shows mutual agreement and creates enforceable proof of the change.

Keep copies. Make sure all parties have signed copies of both the original contract and the amendment. Store these safely.

Common situations where modifications come up

In Salt Lake City and beyond, contract modifications happen frequently. You might want to adjust payment terms, extend a deadline, change a service scope, or modify pricing. Business relationships evolve, and sometimes the original agreement no longer fits what both parties need.

The key is handling these changes properly from the start. A quick handshake or email might feel efficient in the moment, but it creates uncertainty later. If a dispute arises, you'll wish you had a signed amendment.

What happens if you don't follow this process

If you try to modify a contract without written agreement from both parties, you risk:

  • A disagreement about whether the change actually happened
  • One party refusing to honor the modification and claiming the original terms still apply
  • Legal costs and time spent fighting over what was actually agreed to
  • An unenforceable modification that a court won't recognize

    • These problems are preventable with a simple written amendment.

    Get professional guidance

    Contract modifications can get complicated depending on what you're changing and what industry you're in. If you're negotiating a contract change, having a lawyer review the language ensures it's done correctly and protects both parties.

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    About The Law Office of Bobby Udall

    The Law Office of Bobby Udall is located in Salt Lake City and serves clients throughout the region. For questions about contracts, modifications, or other legal matters, visit bobbyudall.com.

    The Law Office of Bobby Udall
    801.980.7777 | 801.981.4679
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