Complicated Contract Setup

[smartn]

Do you have IPSE membership? They may be able to advise.

Unfortunately not. It's my first contract and I did it under an umbrella thinking things would be straightforward that way!

[MrButton]

Ive just skim read the whole tread.

If the handcuff clause is not in your contract then I wouldn’t worry.

This clause I wouldn’t worry about as anything could be in the contracts further down the chain.... -

'comply with all the obligations imposed on us or on you in the Client contract (including any restriction in the Client Contract affecting your future dealings with the End Client)'

In no lawyer but have had plenty of dealings with agencies and unless they can prove loss of earnings I think they don’t have a leg to stand on. So I would:

Call their bluff tell the agency etc that you have taken legal advice and have been advised there is no issue working for the end client and unless they find another route to get you in then you will go direct.

I would also be looking for other roles.