Should You Use an Attorney for Your First Contract? What Residents Need to Know
For residents and fellows, that first job offer feels like the culmination of years of training. But along with the excitement comes a challenge no one prepared you for — the employment contract. Suddenly you’re faced with legal terms, compensation models, restrictive covenants, and malpractice coverage. The natural question arises: Do I need an attorney to review this?
The Case for Using an Attorney
Physician-focused attorneys understand the nuances of employment contracts. They can:
- Spot hidden risks or unfavorable terms.
- Explain complex legal language in plain English.
- Advise you on negotiation strategies.
- Provide context by comparing your contract to others in your specialty.
Considerations: Traditional legal reviews often come at a high cost, ranging anywhere from $500 to $3,000. For residents already managing student loan debt, this can feel out of reach.
The Downsides of Relying Only on an Attorney
While attorneys provide valuable insight, they may not always offer the big-picture perspective you need as a new physician. Legal advice focuses on risk and liability, but you may also need help understanding how your contract impacts lifestyle, career trajectory, and long-term goals.
Alternatives and Affordable Options
Not every resident chooses to work with an attorney. Today, there are more accessible options designed for early-career physicians:
- Contract review services: Some organizations specialize in physician employment agreements at lower costs than private attorneys.
- AI-powered contract analysis: Tools like ContractGuard MD provide a thorough review at an affordable price point, making it easier to catch red flags without spending thousands.
- Mentors and peers: While not a substitute for legal review, trusted colleagues can help you think through lifestyle and career implications.
When You Definitely Need an Attorney
There are some situations where hiring a physician-focused attorney is highly recommended:
- If the contract is unusually complex or lengthy.
- If you’re entering into a partnership or ownership track.
- If the contract includes a buy-in or buy-out clause.
- If state laws significantly impact your specialty or non-compete enforceability.
Choosing the Right Path
The decision comes down to balancing risk, cost, and peace of mind. Many new doctors find that a combination approach works best: using an affordable review tool to highlight issues, then seeking targeted legal advice only if the contract includes high-risk terms.
Before you sign, use our Physician Contract Checklist as your first line of defense. Then decide whether an attorney, a review service, or AI-powered analysis best fits your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all residents need an attorney for their first contract?
No. Many use affordable review tools or services. An attorney is most critical for complex or high-value contracts.
What’s the biggest advantage of hiring an attorney?
An attorney can explain legal terms clearly and negotiate on your behalf, giving you peace of mind.
What’s the biggest drawback of using only an attorney?
Cost. Legal reviews can be expensive, and not all attorneys focus on the unique issues residents face in early-career contracts.
How does ContractGuard MD compare to an attorney?
ContractGuard MD provides affordable, AI-powered analysis tailored to physicians. It won’t replace legal advice in complex cases but is designed to make reviews accessible to residents and fellows.
