Question

Explain why it is considered better to make a partnership agreement in writing.

Answer 1

A partnership deed forms the basis of a partnership firm. A partnership deed consists of all the pre-determined terms and conditions that are agreed to by all the partners while forming the partnership. Generally the following details are included in a partnership deed.
1. Objective of business of the firm
2. Name and address of the firm
3. Name and address of all partners
4. Profit and loss sharing ratio
5. Contribution to capital by each partner
6. Rights, types of roles and duties of partners
7. Duration of partnership
8. Rate of interest on capital, drawings and loans
9. Salaries, commission, if payable to partners.
10. Rules regarding admission, retiring, death and dissolution of the firm, etc. It ensures the

A partnership deed can both be oral or written. Although, it is not compulsory to form partnership agreement in writing under the Partnership Act of 1932, however, written partnership deed is more desirable than the oral agreements. This is because it ensures the smooth functioning of the business of the partnership firm. It helps in avoiding disputes and misunderstandings among the partners. Also, it helps in settling t the disputes (as the case may be) among the partners, as written partnership deed can be referred to anytime. If written partnership deed is duly signed and registered under Partnership Act, then it can be used as evidence in the court of law. Moreover, any changes (if needed) in the partnership deed cannot be made without the consent of all the partners of the firm. Therefore, it is desirable to form partnership deed in writing because of the merits associated with written documents over its oral counterparts.