When it comes to legal documents, it is common to see the phrase « this agreement is done in duplicate » at the end of the document. But what does it actually mean and why is it important?

Essentially, when a document is done in duplicate, it means that two identical copies of the same document have been created and signed by both parties involved. This is done to ensure that each party has a copy of the agreement that they can refer to in the future if necessary.

But why is this important? Well, having two copies of the same document is a way to prevent any misunderstandings or disputes that may arise in the future. If only one copy of the document exists, there is a risk that one party may claim that the terms of the agreement were different than what was originally agreed upon. With two identical copies, each party has a definitive record of what was agreed upon and signed.

Another benefit of creating two copies of a legal document is that it allows both parties to keep a copy for their own records. This can be important if the agreement is a long-term one and there may be a need to refer back to it at a later date. This is especially true for contracts that involve ongoing business relationships, such as partnership agreements or employment contracts.

It is worth noting that creating two copies of a legal document is not always necessary. In some cases, a single copy of the agreement may suffice. However, in situations where there is a higher risk of disputes or misunderstandings, it is always better to err on the side of caution and create two identical copies.

In conclusion, the phrase « this agreement is done in duplicate » is a clear indication that two identical copies of a legal document have been created and signed by both parties. This is an important step in ensuring that the terms of the agreement are clearly defined and understood by all parties involved. If you are involved in a legal agreement, it is always a good idea to create two copies of the document to minimize any potential disputes or misunderstandings that may arise in the future.