Question
Can I assign my contract to another company if it says nothing about it?
I want another company to take over some of the work, but the contract doesn't clearly say whether I can.
Answer
Often, yes. If a contract does not mention assignment, it is generally allowed to assign it to another company. This means transferring your rights and obligations to a third party.
However, this is not automatic in every case. The nature of the work and expectations of the other party can limit whether assignment is allowed.
When is assignment allowed?
If the contract is silent, assignment is usually permitted as long as it does not change the core of the agreement.
This typically works when the duties are standard and not tied to your specific business. The new company steps into your role and takes over performance under the same terms.
When could assignments be restricted?
Assignment may not be allowed if it would materially change the agreement. This is common when the contract depends on your specific skills, reputation, or relationship.
For example, if the other party chose you because of your unique expertise, replacing you with another company could be seen as a major change. In that case, consent may be needed.
Assignment or delegation may also be restricted if it would increase the burden or risk to the other party.
What to do next...
- Review the contract to confirm there are no hidden limits on assignment.
- Consider whether your role is tied to your specific skills or reputation.
- Check if the change would affect the other party's expectations.
- Get written consent before assigning to reduce risk.
What to consider in your specific situation
While assignment may be allowed, your situation may depend on several factors.
- The type of services or obligations in the contract.
- Whether your personal performance was a key factor.
- The expectations and reliance of the other party.
- Any implied limits based on the nature of the work.
- Local laws that may affect assignment rights.
- The potential impact on your business relationship.
Since every situation is different, consider more information through Rocket Copilot, a Legal Pro, or a legal document review to move forward with confidence.

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Please note: This page offers general legal information, but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.

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Disclosures
- This page offers general legal information, not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.