Comprehensive Legal Framework
1. Agreement Acceptance & Binding Nature
These Terms of Service ("Terms," "Agreement," or "Contract") constitute a legally binding agreement between Epiclens Media Private Limited, a company incorporated under the laws of India ("Company," "Service Provider," "we," "us," or "our"), and the individual or entity engaging our services ("Client," "Customer," "you," or "your").
🚨 MANDATORY LEGAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT
BY ACCESSING OUR WEBSITE, REQUESTING SERVICES, EXECUTING A SERVICE AGREEMENT, REMITTING PAYMENT, OR OTHERWISE ENGAGING WITH EPICLENS MEDIA, YOU IRREVOCABLY ACKNOWLEDGE, ACCEPT, AND AGREE TO BE LEGALLY BOUND BY ALL TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND PROVISIONS CONTAINED HEREIN, WITHOUT LIMITATION, MODIFICATION, OR RESERVATION.
1.1 Formation and Execution of Agreement
This Agreement becomes effective and legally binding upon the earliest occurrence of any of the following events:
- Service Inquiry Submission: Completion and submission of any service inquiry or consultation request form
- Quotation Acceptance: Explicit or implicit acceptance of any service quotation or proposal
- Payment Transmission: Remittance of any payment, deposit, or financial consideration
- Service Commencement: Initiation of any service delivery or project development activities
- Contractual Execution: Signing or electronic acceptance of any service agreement or statement of work
1.2 Legal Capacity and Authority
By entering into this Agreement, you represent and warrant that:
- You possess full legal capacity and authority to enter into binding contracts
- You are at least 18 years of age or the age of majority in your jurisdiction
- If representing a business entity, you have proper authorization to bind such entity
- Your engagement does not violate any other agreements or legal obligations
- All information provided is accurate, complete, and not misleading
1.3 Supersession and Integration
This Agreement supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, warranties, agreements, or communications between the parties, whether oral or written. It constitutes the entire and exclusive understanding regarding the subject matter herein and may only be modified through the procedures specified in Section 14.
Legal Precedence Hierarchy
In the event of conflicts between documents, the following precedence order applies: (1) Executed Service Agreements, (2) These Terms of Service, (3) Service-specific addenda, (4) Quotations and proposals, (5) Website content and communications.
2. Comprehensive Service Definitions & Scope
Epiclens Media provides specialized hospitality marketing services designed to enhance brand presence, increase direct bookings, and optimize revenue generation for hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafes, bars, and related hospitality establishments.
2.1 Core Service Categories
Service Category |
Scope Description |
Deliverable Types |
Performance Metrics |
Cinematic Video Production |
Professional video content creation for marketing purposes |
Property videos, promotional content, social media assets |
Creative quality, technical specifications |
Premium Photography |
High-quality visual content for marketing applications |
Room photography, food styling, ambience capture |
Image quality, quantity, usage rights |
Search Engine Optimization |
Website optimization for improved search visibility |
Technical SEO, content optimization, link building |
Rankings improvement, traffic increase |
Social Media Management |
Comprehensive social media strategy and execution |
Content creation, posting, engagement, advertising |
Engagement rates, follower growth |
Revenue Optimization |
OTA management and direct booking enhancement |
Platform optimization, pricing strategies |
Booking increase, revenue growth |
2.2 Service Limitations and Exclusions
The following activities and outcomes are explicitly excluded from our service scope unless specifically contracted:
- Guaranteed Results: Specific performance metrics, booking numbers, or revenue targets
- Third-Party Platform Control: Algorithm changes, policy modifications, or platform decisions
- Competitive Actions: Responses to competitor strategies or market interventions
- External Factors: Economic conditions, seasonal variations, or industry disruptions
- Technical Infrastructure: Client website hosting, domain management, or IT support
- Legal Compliance: Regulatory adherence, licensing, or legal consultation
2.3 Service Customization and Modifications
All services are customized based on client requirements and may include:
- Property-specific strategy development
- Industry segment adaptation (luxury, budget, boutique)
- Geographic market considerations
- Seasonal campaign adjustments
- Competitive positioning strategies
⚠️ SERVICE SCOPE NOTICE
Services are provided based on industry best practices and professional expertise. Market conditions, platform changes, and external factors may affect service delivery and outcomes. Client cooperation and implementation of recommendations are essential for optimal results.
3. Client Obligations & Binding Responsibilities
Client acknowledges and agrees to fulfill the following comprehensive obligations and responsibilities to facilitate effective service delivery and maintain the integrity of the business relationship.
3.1 Information Provision and Accuracy
Client shall provide and maintain:
- Complete Business Information: Accurate property details, services offered, amenities, and pricing structures
- Access Credentials: Administrative access to websites, social media accounts, OTA platforms, and relevant systems
- Marketing Materials: Existing brand guidelines, logos, images, and promotional content
- Target Audience Data: Customer demographics, preferences, and market positioning requirements
- Competitive Intelligence: Information about direct and indirect competitors in the market
- Historical Performance: Previous marketing data, analytics, and performance metrics where available
3.2 Cooperation and Communication Requirements
Client commits to:
- Timely Responses: Respond to requests for information, approvals, or feedback within agreed timeframes
- Decision Authority: Designate authorized personnel with decision-making capacity for project matters
- Resource Allocation: Provide necessary internal resources and personnel support as required
- Implementation Support: Assist with implementation of recommendations and strategy execution
- Regular Communication: Participate in scheduled meetings, calls, and progress reviews
3.3 Technical and Operational Compliance
Client shall ensure:
- Platform Compliance: Adherence to terms of service of all relevant platforms and services
- Legal Compliance: Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards
- Brand Consistency: Maintenance of brand standards and quality expectations
- Content Accuracy: Verification of all content, pricing, and promotional information
- System Maintenance: Proper maintenance of websites, booking systems, and technical infrastructure
3.4 Financial and Payment Obligations
Client agrees to:
- Make all payments according to agreed schedules and terms
- Provide accurate billing and payment information
- Notify of any billing disputes within specified timeframes
- Maintain current payment methods and credit facilities
- Pay additional costs for scope changes or expedited services
⚖️ MATERIAL BREACH CONSEQUENCES
Failure to fulfill these obligations may constitute a material breach of this Agreement, entitling Company to suspend services, terminate the relationship, retain all payments made, and pursue legal remedies for damages and costs incurred.
4. Intellectual Property Rights & Ownership
This section establishes comprehensive intellectual property rights, ownership structures, and usage permissions governing all creative and strategic assets developed during the service relationship.
4.1 Company Proprietary Rights
Epiclens Media retains exclusive ownership of:
- Methodologies and Processes: Proprietary marketing strategies, analytical frameworks, and service delivery methodologies
- Tools and Software: Custom-developed applications, templates, and technological solutions
- General Knowledge: Industry insights, best practices, and accumulated expertise
- Pre-Existing Assets: All intellectual property owned prior to client engagement
- Derivative Works: Improvements to existing methodologies derived from client engagements
4.2 Client-Specific Deliverable Rights
Asset Type |
Ownership Structure |
Usage Rights |
Restrictions |
Custom Video Content |
Client owns final deliverables |
Unlimited commercial use |
Cannot resell or license to competitors |
Photography Assets |
Client owns commissioned works |
Marketing and promotional use |
Photographer credit requirements may apply |
Written Content |
Joint ownership model |
Client use for intended purpose |
Company retains portfolio usage rights |
Strategic Documents |
Client owns customized elements |
Internal use and implementation |
Cannot share with third-party agencies |
Analytics Reports |
Client owns data insights |
Business decision making |
Cannot distribute without authorization |
4.3 Third-Party Intellectual Property
For assets incorporating third-party intellectual property:
- Licensed Materials: Stock images, music, or fonts are subject to original licensing terms
- Platform Integration: Social media content subject to platform terms and conditions
- Software Tools: Analytics and management tools subject to original software licenses
- Compliance Responsibility: Client responsible for ongoing compliance with third-party licenses
4.4 Portfolio and Marketing Usage Rights
Company reserves the right to:
- Use completed projects for portfolio presentation and marketing purposes
- Create case studies showcasing service effectiveness (with anonymization if requested)
- Display work samples on website, social media, and promotional materials
- Reference client relationship in general terms for business development
- Utilize general insights for service improvement and methodology development
4.5 Intellectual Property Indemnification
Client agrees to indemnify Company against claims arising from:
- Use of client-provided materials that infringe third-party rights
- Modifications made to delivered assets without Company approval
- Use of deliverables outside authorized scope or territory
- Combination of deliverables with third-party materials creating infringement
Moral Rights and Attribution
Where applicable under local law, Company retains moral rights to creative works. Client agrees to provide appropriate attribution when displaying creative assets in contexts where authorship disclosure is customary or legally required.
5. Payment Terms & Financial Obligations
This section establishes comprehensive payment obligations, billing procedures, and financial terms governing all monetary aspects of the service relationship.
5.1 Payment Structure and Scheduling
Service Type |
Payment Structure |
Payment Schedule |
Late Payment Penalty |
One-time Projects |
50% upfront, 50% on completion |
Net 15 days from invoice |
2% per month |
Monthly Retainers |
Monthly advance payment |
Due 1st of each month |
2% per month + service suspension |
Large Projects |
Milestone-based payments |
Per agreed schedule |
2% per month + project halt |
Rush Services |
100% advance payment |
Before service commencement |
Not applicable |
5.2 Pricing and Fee Structure
Service fees are determined based on:
- Scope Complexity: Technical requirements, creative demands, and resource allocation
- Timeline Requirements: Standard delivery versus expedited service needs
- Market Factors: Property size, competitive landscape, and geographic considerations
- Service Integration: Single service versus comprehensive multi-service packages
- Client Requirements: Customization level, reporting needs, and support expectations
5.3 Additional Costs and Expenses
Client is responsible for additional costs including:
- Third-Party Services: Stock photography, premium software licenses, external consultants
- Advertising Spend: Social media advertising, Google Ads, and promotional campaign costs
- Travel Expenses: On-site photography, video production, or consultation visits
- Rush Charges: Expedited delivery or after-hours service requirements
- Scope Changes: Modifications to original service specifications
- Technology Costs: Specialized software, tools, or platform subscriptions
5.4 Payment Methods and Processing
Accepted payment methods include:
- Bank transfers (NEFT/RTGS/IMPS)
- Online payment gateways
- Corporate checks (subject to clearing)
- Digital payment platforms
- International wire transfers (for overseas clients)
5.5 Late Payment Consequences
Late payments result in:
- Interest Charges: 2% per month or maximum legal rate
- Service Suspension: Immediate halt of all ongoing services
- Collection Costs: Attorney fees, collection agency costs, and administrative charges
- Credit Reporting: Adverse credit reporting to relevant agencies
- Legal Action: Pursuit of full legal remedies and damages
🚨 PAYMENT FINALITY
ALL PAYMENTS ARE FINAL AND NON-REFUNDABLE UPON RECEIPT, REGARDLESS OF SERVICE STATUS, CLIENT SATISFACTION, OR MARKET PERFORMANCE. PAYMENT CONSTITUTES ACCEPTANCE OF SERVICES AND WAIVER OF REFUND RIGHTS.
6. Service Delivery Standards & Performance
This section establishes service delivery expectations, performance standards, and quality assurance procedures governing all aspects of service execution and client satisfaction.
6.1 Delivery Timelines and Milestones
Service delivery timelines are established based on:
- Project Complexity: Technical requirements and creative development needs
- Client Responsiveness: Approval cycles and feedback provision timelines
- Resource Availability: Team capacity and equipment scheduling
- External Dependencies: Third-party services and platform requirements
- Quality Standards: Review, revision, and approval processes
6.2 Quality Assurance Framework
All deliverables undergo comprehensive quality assurance including:
- Technical Review: Verification of technical specifications and functionality
- Creative Assessment: Evaluation of creative quality and brand alignment
- Compliance Check: Platform requirement and legal standard verification
- Performance Testing: Functionality and optimization validation
- Client Review: Formal client approval and feedback incorporation
6.3 Delivery Methods and Formats
Deliverable Type |
Delivery Method |
Format Specifications |
Revision Allowance |
Video Content |
Cloud download links |
4K, HD, Social media optimized |
2 rounds of minor edits |
Photography |
Online gallery access |
High-resolution, web-optimized |
1 round of color adjustments |
SEO Optimization |
Direct implementation |
Platform-specific integration |
Strategy refinement |
Social Media Content |
Direct posting/content library |
Platform-specific formats |
Content modifications |
Strategy Documents |
Secure document sharing |
PDF, presentation formats |
Clarification sessions |
6.4 Performance Monitoring and Reporting
Regular performance monitoring includes:
- Analytics Tracking: Website traffic, engagement metrics, and conversion data
- Campaign Performance: Social media reach, ad performance, and ROI analysis
- SEO Monitoring: Ranking improvements, organic traffic growth, and visibility metrics
- Booking Analysis: Direct booking trends and revenue impact assessment
- Competitive Analysis: Market position and competitive performance comparison
6.5 Service Level Agreements
Standard service levels include:
- Response Time: 24-48 hours for routine inquiries during business days
- Emergency Support: Same-day response for critical issues
- Revision Turnaround: 3-5 business days for approved revision requests
- Reporting Schedule: Monthly performance reports and quarterly strategy reviews
- Account Management: Dedicated account manager and regular check-ins
⚠️ DELIVERY DEPENDENCIES
Service delivery timelines are contingent upon client cooperation, timely approvals, access provision, and external factors beyond Company control. Delays in client response or approval may extend delivery timelines proportionally.
7. Confidentiality & Non-Disclosure Obligations
Both parties acknowledge that they may have access to confidential and proprietary information during the course of the business relationship and agree to maintain strict confidentiality in accordance with the following provisions.
7.1 Definition of Confidential Information
Confidential Information includes, but is not limited to:
- Business Information: Revenue data, occupancy rates, pricing strategies, and competitive intelligence
- Operational Details: Internal processes, cost structures, vendor relationships, and business plans
- Customer Data: Guest information, booking patterns, customer preferences, and marketing databases
- Technical Information: System configurations, software licenses, and proprietary technologies
- Strategic Plans: Marketing strategies, expansion plans, and competitive positioning
- Financial Information: Budgets, financial statements, investment plans, and funding arrangements
7.2 Confidentiality Obligations
Both parties agree to:
- Non-Disclosure: Not disclose Confidential Information to any third party without prior written consent
- Limited Use: Use Confidential Information solely for the purposes of service delivery and performance
- Protection Measures: Implement reasonable security measures to protect against unauthorized disclosure
- Employee Training: Ensure all employees and contractors understand and comply with confidentiality obligations
- Return of Materials: Return or destroy all Confidential Information upon termination of the relationship
7.3 Exceptions to Confidentiality
Confidentiality obligations do not apply to information that:
- Is publicly available through no breach of this Agreement
- Was rightfully known prior to disclosure under this Agreement
- Is independently developed without use of Confidential Information
- Is rightfully received from a third party without breach of confidentiality
- Must be disclosed pursuant to legal or regulatory requirements
7.4 Data Security and Protection
Specific data protection measures include:
- Access Controls: Role-based access limitations and authentication requirements
- Encryption: Data encryption in transit and at rest using industry-standard protocols
- Backup Security: Secure backup procedures with encrypted storage and access controls
- Network Security: Firewall protection, intrusion detection, and regular security audits
- Incident Response: Immediate notification and response procedures for security breaches
7.5 Duration and Survival
Confidentiality obligations:
- Remain in effect during the entire term of the service relationship
- Survive termination or expiration of this Agreement for a period of five (5) years
- Continue indefinitely for trade secrets and proprietary methodologies
- Apply to all employees, contractors, and agents of both parties
Competitive Protection
Company agrees not to use Client's Confidential Information to directly benefit competitors during the term of this Agreement and for twelve (12) months thereafter, provided such restriction does not prevent Company from using general skills, knowledge, and experience gained during the relationship.
8. Comprehensive Liability Limitations & Exclusions
This section establishes comprehensive limitations on Company's liability and excludes various categories of damages to provide maximum legal protection while defining the scope of potential liability exposure.
8.1 Maximum Liability Limitation
Company's total aggregate liability for all claims, demands, actions, losses, damages, costs, and expenses arising from or related to this Agreement or the services provided hereunder shall not exceed the lesser of:
- The total amount paid by Client to Company during the twelve (12) months immediately preceding the claim
- The amount paid for the specific service giving rise to the liability claim
- INR 100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Indian Rupees) in the aggregate
8.2 Excluded Damage Categories
Under no circumstances shall Company be liable for any of the following types of damages, even if Company has been advised of the possibility of such damages:
Damage Category |
Description |
Examples |
Exclusion Basis |
Consequential Damages |
Indirect losses flowing from service issues |
Lost bookings, reputation damage |
Too remote and unpredictable |
Incidental Damages |
Additional costs incurred due to service issues |
Alternative service costs, staff overtime |
Not reasonably foreseeable |
Special Damages |
Unique losses specific to client circumstances |
Lost business opportunities, contracts |
Client-specific and unpredictable |
Punitive Damages |
Damages intended to punish wrongdoing |
Exemplary awards, penalty damages |
Not compensatory in nature |
Lost Profits |
Anticipated future earnings or revenue |
Projected booking revenue, profit margins |
Speculative and uncertain |
8.3 Service-Specific Liability Exclusions
Company disclaims liability for:
- Market Performance: Tourism trends, economic conditions, and industry fluctuations
- Platform Changes: Social media algorithm updates, search engine modifications, OTA policy changes
- Competitive Actions: Competitor strategies, pricing changes, or market interventions
- Technical Issues: Website downtime, server failures, or third-party service interruptions
- Content Performance: Specific engagement rates, conversion metrics, or viral content success
- Regulatory Changes: Government policies, licensing requirements, or industry regulations
8.4 Warranty Disclaimers
⚖️ COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY DISCLAIMER
COMPANY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
- MERCHANTABILITY: Fitness for general commercial purposes
- FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE: Suitability for client's specific business needs
- NON-INFRINGEMENT: Freedom from intellectual property conflicts
- QUALITY: Specific standards of performance or results
- ACCURACY: Precision of data, analytics, or strategic recommendations
ALL SERVICES ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.
8.5 Time Limitations and Notice Requirements
Any claims against Company must comply with the following requirements:
- Statute of Limitations: All claims must be brought within one (1) year of the date the claim arose
- Written Notice: Claims must be submitted in writing with detailed description within ninety (90) days of discovery
- Mitigation Obligation: Client must take reasonable steps to mitigate damages
- Documentation Requirement: Comprehensive documentation of alleged damages and causation
8.6 Indemnification by Client
Client agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Company from claims arising from:
- Client's breach of this Agreement or violation of applicable laws
- Client's misuse of deliverables or services outside authorized scope
- Infringement claims related to client-provided materials or modifications
- Client's failure to obtain necessary permissions or licenses
- Third-party claims related to client's business operations or practices
9. Termination & Suspension Provisions
This section establishes comprehensive termination rights, procedures, and consequences governing the conclusion of the service relationship under various circumstances.
9.1 Termination Rights and Grounds
Either party may terminate this Agreement under the following circumstances:
9.1.1 Termination for Convenience
- Client Termination: Thirty (30) days written notice; payment for all services rendered
- Company Termination: Thirty (30) days written notice; completion of work in progress
- Scope Limitations: No refund of payments made; completion of milestone deliverables
9.1.2 Termination for Cause
Immediate termination without notice for:
- Material Breach: Failure to remedy breach within fifteen (15) days of written notice
- Payment Default: Non-payment of invoices within thirty (30) days of due date
- Legal Violations: Violation of applicable laws or regulatory requirements
- Confidentiality Breach: Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information
- Insolvency Events: Bankruptcy, receivership, or assignment for benefit of creditors
9.2 Service Suspension Rights
Company reserves the right to suspend services immediately for:
- Payment Delinquency: Any overdue payment or billing dispute
- Cooperation Failure: Client failure to provide necessary information or access
- Platform Violations: Actions that risk platform account suspension or penalties
- Legal Concerns: Potential legal or regulatory compliance issues
- Resource Limitations: Emergency resource reallocation requirements
9.3 Termination Procedures and Notice
Termination Type |
Notice Period |
Notice Method |
Cure Period |
Convenience |
30 days |
Written notice via email and certified mail |
Not applicable |
Material Breach |
15 days |
Written notice with breach details |
15 days to cure |
Payment Default |
7 days |
Written notice and account suspension |
7 days to cure |
Immediate Cause |
None |
Immediate written notice |
None |
9.4 Post-Termination Obligations
Upon termination, both parties shall:
- Payment Settlement: Client pays all outstanding invoices and accrued charges
- Asset Return: Return all confidential information and proprietary materials
- Access Revocation: Remove access credentials and administrative permissions
- Work Product Delivery: Transfer completed deliverables and work in progress
- Cooperation: Provide reasonable transition assistance for ongoing campaigns
9.5 Survival of Terms
The following provisions survive termination:
- Payment obligations for services rendered
- Intellectual property rights and licenses
- Confidentiality and non-disclosure obligations
- Liability limitations and warranty disclaimers
- Dispute resolution and governing law provisions
- Indemnification obligations
🚨 TERMINATION CONSEQUENCES
TERMINATION DOES NOT RELIEVE CLIENT OF PAYMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR SERVICES RENDERED OR WORK COMPLETED. ALL FEES BECOME IMMEDIATELY DUE AND PAYABLE. NO REFUNDS WILL BE PROVIDED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
10. Mandatory Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
All disputes, controversies, or claims arising from or relating to this Agreement shall be resolved exclusively through the following mandatory, sequential dispute resolution procedures designed to provide efficient and cost-effective resolution while maintaining business relationships.
10.1 Hierarchical Resolution Framework
Dispute resolution shall proceed through the following mandatory stages:
10.1.1 Direct Negotiation (Mandatory First Step)
- Initial Notice: Written dispute notice to designated account manager within five (5) business days of dispute discovery
- Management Escalation: Automatic escalation to senior management within ten (10) business days
- Executive Review: Final internal review by executive leadership within fifteen (15) business days
- Good Faith Requirement: All parties must participate in good faith negotiations
- Documentation Obligation: Maintain written records of all negotiation attempts and proposals
10.1.2 Structured Mediation (Mandatory Second Step)
If direct negotiation fails within thirty (30) calendar days:
- Mediator Selection: Mutually agreed mediator or appointment by Delhi High Court ADR Center
- Location: Mediation conducted in Gurugram, Haryana, India
- Cost Sharing: Equal division of mediator fees and administrative costs
- Confidentiality: All mediation proceedings strictly confidential
- Timeline: Mediation to commence within sixty (60) days of failure of direct negotiation
10.1.3 Binding Arbitration (Final Resolution)
Disputes unresolved through mediation shall be submitted to binding arbitration:
- Arbitration Rules: Conducted under Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 2015
- Arbitrator Selection: Single arbitrator mutually agreed or appointed by court
- Seat of Arbitration: Gurugram, Haryana, India
- Language: Proceedings conducted in English
- Award Finality: Arbitration award final and binding on all parties
10.2 Jurisdiction and Venue Restrictions
The parties agree that:
- Exclusive Jurisdiction: Courts of Gurugram, Haryana, India have exclusive jurisdiction
- Venue Limitation: No legal proceedings may be commenced in any other jurisdiction
- Forum Non Conveniens: Parties waive any forum non conveniens defenses
- Service of Process: Parties consent to service of process via email and registered post
10.3 Expedited Procedures for Specific Disputes
Dispute Type |
Expedited Timeline |
Resolution Method |
Special Procedures |
Payment Disputes |
15 days total |
Accounting review + executive decision |
Automatic service suspension |
IP Infringement |
7 days for injunctive relief |
Emergency arbitration |
Immediate cease and desist |
Confidentiality Breach |
24 hours for emergency relief |
Court intervention allowed |
Expedited injunctive relief |
Service Quality |
30 days standard process |
Technical mediation |
Expert evaluation required |
10.4 Class Action and Jury Trial Waiver
⚖️ COMPREHENSIVE WAIVER
BOTH PARTIES HEREBY WAIVE:
- CLASS ACTION RIGHTS: Right to participate in class action lawsuits
- JURY TRIAL RIGHTS: Right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding
- REPRESENTATIVE ACTIONS: Right to bring representative or collective actions
- CONSOLIDATION RIGHTS: Right to consolidate disputes with other parties
10.5 Legal Costs and Attorney Fees
Cost allocation for dispute resolution:
- Prevailing Party: Entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and costs
- Collection Costs: Non-prevailing party pays all collection expenses
- Arbitration Costs: Shared equally unless arbitrator orders otherwise
- Court Costs: As determined by applicable court rules and orders
11. Comprehensive Indemnification & Hold Harmless
This section establishes comprehensive indemnification obligations designed to protect Company from various forms of liability, claims, and expenses arising from the client relationship and service delivery.
11.1 Client Indemnification Obligations
Client agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Company, its officers, directors, employees, agents, contractors, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, suits, damages, liabilities, losses, settlements, judgments, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorney fees and court costs) arising from or relating to:
11.1.1 Content and Materials
- Client-Provided Content: Infringement claims related to materials, images, text, or media provided by Client
- Trademark Violations: Use of Client's trademarks, logos, or brand elements
- Copyright Issues: Any copyright infringement arising from Client's materials or instructions
- Publicity Rights: Use of individual likenesses or personalities in Client materials
11.1.2 Business Operations and Compliance
- Legal Violations: Client's violation of applicable laws, regulations, or industry standards
- License Compliance: Failure to maintain required business licenses or permits
- Platform Violations: Breach of terms of service of social media platforms, OTAs, or other services
- Data Protection: Violations of privacy laws or data protection regulations
11.1.3 Service Usage and Modifications
- Unauthorized Use: Use of deliverables outside authorized scope or territory
- Unauthorized Modifications: Changes to deliverables without Company approval
- Third-Party Integration: Combination of deliverables with third-party materials creating liability
- Misrepresentation: False or misleading use of Company deliverables or recommendations
11.2 Third-Party Claims and Liability
Client indemnification extends to claims by:
- Customers and Guests: Claims related to marketing representations or service promises
- Competitors: Unfair competition or disparagement claims
- Regulatory Authorities: Government enforcement actions or penalties
- Platform Providers: Violations of platform terms resulting in account suspension or penalties
- Content Owners: Intellectual property infringement claims
11.3 Company Limited Indemnification
Company agrees to indemnify Client solely for:
- IP Infringement: Direct infringement by Company-created original content (limited to face value of service fees paid)
- Gross Negligence: Claims arising from Company's gross negligence or willful misconduct
- Confidentiality Breach: Unauthorized disclosure of Client confidential information by Company
11.4 Indemnification Procedures
Indemnification procedures require:
- Prompt Notice: Written notice of claim within ten (10) days of discovery
- Control of Defense: Indemnifying party controls defense and settlement negotiations
- Cooperation: Indemnified party provides reasonable cooperation and assistance
- Settlement Authority: No settlement without indemnifying party's written consent
- Documentation: Comprehensive documentation of all costs and expenses
11.5 Mitigation and Limitation
Indemnification obligations are subject to:
- Duty to Mitigate: Obligation to minimize damages and costs
- Insurance Offset: Reduction by amounts recovered from insurance
- Contribution: Proportional responsibility for jointly caused damages
- Statutory Limits: Compliance with applicable legal limitations
Survival and Duration
Indemnification obligations survive termination of this Agreement and continue for the maximum period allowed by applicable law, but not less than three (3) years from the date of termination.
12. Force Majeure & Extraordinary Circumstances
This section provides comprehensive protection against liability and performance obligations when extraordinary circumstances beyond reasonable control prevent or delay service delivery.
12.1 Definition of Force Majeure Events
Force Majeure Events include any circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the affected party, including but not limited to:
12.1.1 Natural Disasters and Environmental Events
- Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, cyclones, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions
- Extreme Weather: Severe storms, drought, extreme temperatures, or unusual weather patterns
- Environmental Emergencies: Industrial accidents, chemical spills, or environmental contamination
- Public Health Emergencies: Pandemics, epidemics, or widespread health crises
12.1.2 Government and Regulatory Actions
- Government Orders: Emergency declarations, martial law, or government-imposed restrictions
- Regulatory Changes: New laws or regulations affecting service delivery or business operations
- Travel Restrictions: Government-imposed travel bans or movement limitations
- Business Closures: Mandatory shutdowns or operational restrictions
12.1.3 Infrastructure and Technology Failures
- Utility Failures: Power outages, internet disruptions, or telecommunications failures
- Transportation Disruptions: Air travel cancellations, shipping delays, or logistics interruptions
- Technology Platform Failures: Major platform outages affecting service delivery
- Cyber Attacks: Hacking attempts, data breaches, or system compromises
12.1.4 Social and Economic Disruptions
- Labor Disputes: Strikes, lockouts, or widespread labor disruptions
- Economic Crises: Financial system failures or economic emergencies
- Social Unrest: Riots, civil disturbances, or widespread social disruption
- War and Terrorism: Armed conflicts, terrorist attacks, or national security emergencies
12.2 Force Majeure Procedures and Notification
Upon occurrence of a Force Majeure Event:
- Immediate Notice: Written notification within forty-eight (48) hours of discovery
- Detailed Description: Comprehensive explanation of the event and its impact on service delivery
- Mitigation Efforts: Description of steps taken to minimize impact and resume services
- Estimated Duration: Best estimate of expected duration and timeline for resolution
- Regular Updates: Weekly progress reports during the continuation of the event
12.3 Rights and Obligations During Force Majeure
Party |
Suspended Obligations |
Continuing Obligations |
Additional Rights |
Company |
Service delivery timelines, Performance guarantees |
Communication, Mitigation efforts, Status updates |
Timeline extension, Resource reallocation |
Client |
Performance penalties, Delivery timeline requirements |
Payment for completed work, Cooperation with mitigation |
Alternative service arrangements |
12.4 Mitigation and Alternative Arrangements
During Force Majeure Events, parties shall:
- Reasonable Efforts: Use best efforts to minimize impact and resume normal operations
- Alternative Methods: Explore alternative service delivery methods when possible
- Resource Reallocation: Prioritize critical services and reallocate resources accordingly
- Third-Party Assistance: Engage alternative service providers if necessary and feasible
- Communication Maintenance: Maintain open communication channels and regular updates
12.5 Termination Rights for Extended Force Majeure
If a Force Majeure Event continues for more than ninety (90) consecutive days:
- Either party may terminate the Agreement with thirty (30) days written notice
- Client remains responsible for payment of all services completed prior to termination
- Company shall transfer all completed work products to Client
- Both parties shall cooperate in orderly transition and closeout procedures
- No penalty or damages for termination under these circumstances
⚠️ FORCE MAJEURE LIMITATIONS
Force Majeure does not excuse payment obligations for services already rendered or suspend Client's obligation to pay for completed work. Financial hardship alone does not constitute a Force Majeure Event unless accompanied by qualifying extraordinary circumstances.
13. Data Protection & Privacy Compliance
This section establishes comprehensive data protection obligations, privacy compliance requirements, and information security standards governing the collection, processing, and protection of all personal and business data.
13.1 Data Processing Roles and Responsibilities
For purposes of data protection laws:
- Client as Data Controller: Client determines purposes and means of processing for guest data, customer information, and business analytics
- Company as Data Processor: Company processes data on behalf of Client according to documented instructions and service requirements
- Joint Processing: Marketing analytics and campaign optimization may involve joint data processing responsibilities
- Independent Processing: Each party acts as independent controller for their respective business data an