Associates and principals concerned about associate contracts are being offered a free contract-checking and advice service as part of their Dental Defence Union (DDU) membership.

DDU members have been raising a growing range of contractual issues about associate agreements in particular. The DDU already regularly supports members with GDC cases which began as disputes between dental professionals and unfortunately the number of such cases is increasing. By extending expert advice and support to cover a wider range of factors, the DDU aims to stop contractual friction leading to more complex problems.

The newly-launched service is designed to help associates and principals alike. DDU membership now includes:

  • Free advice on wording associate agreements from dento-legal experts

  • Free checks on associate contracts against best practice guidelines

  • Free access to a model contract, developed with specialist dental lawyers

  • Competitive rates negotiated for DDU members who wish to take a contract dispute further and need specific legal advice.

Over the last three years the DDU supported over 99.5% of requests for assistance, leading to thousands of dental professionals receiving support.

DDU members can access the new service by calling the DDU's dento-legal advice line on 0800 374 626. For further information see: www.theddu.com/contracts.