Signing a mutual NDA for partnerships and deals
When both sides will share sensitive information — a partnership, an acquisition talk, a joint pitch — a mutual NDA protects everyone equally. Check it's genuinely mutual, then sign.
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Common pitfalls
One-sided definitions
Confidential information defined only for one party.
Hidden restrictions
Non-solicit or exclusivity tucked into an NDA.
Return or destroy
What happens to information when talks end.
Mutual NDA checklist
Symmetry is the point.
1
Same obligations both ways
Look for 'each party' rather than one named side.
2
Purpose clause
Information may be used only for the stated purpose.
3
Duration
Often 2–5 years; trade secrets may be longer.
Signing for a company
Sign with your full name and title, and make sure you're authorised to bind the company. Add the company name in the signature block.
Questions
Do both parties sign the same PDF?+
Usually one signs, the other countersigns and returns the executed copy.
Can I edit the NDA?+
Propose changes in writing; initial any handwritten edits.
What does it cost?+
Free to try. Downloading your signed PDF costs €2.99 a month or €24.99 a year, and you can cancel anytime.