NDA Review

NDAs look like commodity documents and are often signed without close reading, which is why they regularly contain provisions that are more demanding than the parties realise.

What to look at in an NDA before signing

The points to look at on review are: what counts as confidential information (some definitions are so broad they catch information that is plainly not confidential); the duration of obligations (perpetual NDAs are rarely appropriate); the permitted uses (often narrower than commercially needed); the carve-outs for information that becomes public, is independently developed, or is required to be disclosed by law; and the governing law and jurisdiction.

A short review identifies the points worth pushing back on before signing, and it is much cheaper than discovering after signing that the NDA does something you did not expect.

If someone has asked you to sign an NDA, it pays to understand what you are agreeing to before you sign.

Example: a typical scope and fixed fee

For a single NDA review, the typical scope looks like this.

What's included

• Review of the NDA
• Advice on scope, duration, permitted disclosures, and any unusual or onerous provisions
• A clear written summary with practical recommendations
• A follow-up call or email exchange to discuss the findings

What's outside this scope

• Redrafting the NDA (see NDA Drafting)
• Negotiation with the other party beyond the scope described above
• Tax advice

Fixed fee: £250, no VAT.

How I will approach your matter

Once you have instructed me, I will be in touch within one working day. Send me the NDA, and I will provide a clear written summary of the key provisions, risks, and practical recommendations, followed by a call or email to discuss the findings.