Last Updated: October 15, 2024
By accessing or using the services provided by openly.work (the “Platform”), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service (“Terms”). If you do not agree to these Terms, do not use the Platform. These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you (“User,” “Client,” or “Freelancer”) and openly.work.
openly.work provides an online platform that connects clients and freelancers for project-based work. The Platform includes features such as public and confidential job postings, escrow payment services, and dispute resolution.
Users must create an account to access Platform services. Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials. Users must provide accurate information and agree not to impersonate another person or entity.
Public Deliverables: By default, all job deliverables are public, allowing freelancers to showcase them in their portfolios.
Confidential Work Option: Clients can opt for a “Confidential Work Agreement,” ensuring deliverables remain private. Confidential work cannot be shared by freelancers without the client’s written consent.
Escrow: All payments for freelance services are held in escrow until the project is marked as complete or a dispute is resolved.
Client Funding: Clients are required to fund the project before work begins. Funds are securely held in escrow until release conditions are met.
Payment Release: Payments are released from escrow to freelancers upon the client’s approval or as determined by the dispute resolution process.
Service Fees: openly.work charges a platform fee for each transaction, deducted from the freelancer’s earnings.
Initial Resolution: Users are encouraged to resolve disputes amicably through direct communication on the Platform.
Dispute Escalation: If a resolution cannot be reached, either party can escalate the dispute by submitting a formal dispute request to openly.work. A fee may apply for using the dispute resolution service.
Review Process: openly.work will review the evidence provided by both parties and make a final determination. This decision is binding.
Refund Disputes: Freelancers have the option to purchase the right to dispute refund claims, protecting their interests during conflicts.
Users agree to use the Platform in a lawful manner and not to engage in fraudulent or abusive behavior. Users must not post offensive, misleading, or inappropriate content.
Client Ownership: Clients retain ownership of all deliverables for confidential projects unless otherwise specified.
Public Work: For public deliverables, freelancers have the right to showcase the work in their portfolios, unless stated otherwise by an agreement.
openly.work is not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of the Platform. The maximum liability of openly.work is limited to the amount of fees paid by the user to the Platform.
openly.work reserves the right to terminate or suspend user accounts for violations of these Terms or for any other reason deemed necessary to maintain the integrity of the Platform.
openly.work may revise these Terms at any time. Users will be notified of significant changes through the Platform or via email. Continued use of the Platform after changes indicates acceptance of the new Terms.
These Terms of Service are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Portugal, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising from or related to these Terms or the use of the Platform will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Portugal. Users agree to submit to the jurisdiction of these courts and waive any objections to such venue.
For any questions or concerns regarding these Terms, please contact openly.work at team@openly.work.