What kind of document to keep an independent contractor waiting?
<p>We're a small software consulting shop. We're close to signing a deal with a client. We also have an independent subcontractor looking to join us.</p>

<p>The independent contractor is getting anxious about waiting, so we're planning to give them a payment to keep them on hold for 2 weeks. If our contract from client works out, independent contract will have to join us. Else, they can walk with the money we already paid them.</p>

<p>What would such a document be called?</p>

<p>Offer them to sign the contract straight away — with a special clause/condition accommodating your situation. There is no need for a separate document.</p>

<p>For example, you can call the first two-three weeks "provisional period", during which you will be allowed to terminate the contract with giving them a one-off payment.</p>

contract-law