Governing law and jurisdiction in cross-border freelancer contracts

You are in Kazakhstan; client is Delaware. Fine print: Governing Law: Delaware, Exclusive jurisdiction: New York courts.

That is where they sue and which rules apply.

Governing law

Statute of limitations, damages, indemnity interpretation — US states differ.

Jurisdiction

Exclusive — only there. Suing or defending from abroad is expensive even if you are right.

Arbitration (AAA, ICC): faster sometimes, costly fees, limited appeals.

Ask for

1. Your courts (rare)
2. Neutral arbitration (Singapore, Geneva)
3. Mediation first
4. Small-claim path for deals under $10k

AI review finds arbitration clauses before you sign.

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Informational only, not legal advice.