What is a Professional Advisory and Strategic Consultancy Agreement?
A Consultancy Agreement is a commercial contract in India under which a specialist or firm provides strategic or technical expertise to a corporate client on an independent contractor basis in return for a retainer or milestone-based professional fee.
Enforceability in Indian Courts
Enforceable under Section 10 of the Indian Contract Act 1872. Professional fees are subject to 10% TDS under Section 194J of the Income Tax Act.
Execution on Stamp Paper
Executed on a non-judicial stamp paper of Rs 100 or Rs 200.
Documents Needed to Execute This Professional Advisory and Strategic Consultancy Agreement
Keep the following self-attested documents ready before signing and attesting the agreement:
Essential Clauses in This Agreement Draft
Every clause is structured according to Indian statutory jurisprudence to safeguard the interests of both executing parties:
01.Independent Contractor Affirmation
Expressly denies employer-employee relationship.
02.TDS Deduction Under Section 194J
Regulates tax deduction on professional fees.
Legal FAQs on Professional Advisory and Strategic Consultancy Agreement
Is a consultant considered an employee in India?
No, a properly drafted consultancy agreement defines the consultant as an independent contractor responsible for their own taxes and statutory compliances.
Work Experience Certificate
Formal work experience and service certificate issued by an employer to an employee upon resignation or departure.
Mutual and Unilateral Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
Standard confidentiality and non-disclosure agreement under the Indian Contract Act 1872 for startups, tech firms, software development, consultants, and commercial transactions.
Freelancer and Independent Contractor Client Agreement
Standard professional services contract for Indian freelancers, digital designers, software engineers, and creative contractors, establishing scope of work, milestone payments, revision limits, and intellectual property transfer.
