Legal request template

Mutual NDA signing request template

A mutual NDA lets two parties exchange confidential information while binding both sides to keep it secret and use it only for an agreed purpose.

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What is a mutual nda?

A mutual non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is a contract in which two parties both disclose confidential information to each other and both agree to protect it. Unlike a one-way NDA, the obligations run in both directions, which suits situations like joint ventures, partnership talks, or supplier discussions where each side will share sensitive details. It typically defines what counts as confidential, how that information may be used, and how long the duty to keep it secret lasts.

Getting a mutual NDA signed before any commercially sensitive conversation matters because it sets clear expectations and gives each party a documented basis to act if information is misused. It protects trade secrets, pricing, customer lists, product plans and other material that could lose value if it leaked. An NDA is a contract, not a magic shield, so its real worth comes from having both parties actually sign it before disclosure begins and from keeping a clear record of who agreed and when.

When to use a mutual nda

Exploring a partnership or joint venture where both sides will share plans
Vendor or supplier talks involving each party's pricing or processes
M&A or investment discussions with two-way due diligence
Co-developing a product where both parties contribute know-how

What to include in a mutual nda

Definition of confidential information: what is covered and any carve-outs like already-public material.
Permitted purpose: the specific reason the information may be used, and nothing else.
Mutual obligations: both parties' duties to protect, restrict access and avoid disclosure.
Term and survival: how long the agreement runs and how long secrecy continues after it ends.
Return or destruction: what happens to shared materials when discussions conclude.

Pros and cons of sending a mutual nda as a signing request

Pros

Each party gets a private link, so disclosure starts only once both have signed
Status tracking shows opens, previews and signatures for both counterparties
Expiry keeps a stalled NDA from sitting open indefinitely
A completion receipt records exactly who signed and when

Cons and things to watch

An NDA can deter but cannot physically stop a determined leak
Vague confidentiality definitions weaken enforceability later
Both signatures are needed before it binds; one missing party leaves a gap
A signing tool sends and tracks it but does not draft or vet the terms

How to send a mutual nda with Cosign

Upload your mutual NDA and use preview to confirm the right version and party names appear before sending.
Add both counterparties as signers so each receives a private link addressed to them.
Set a 14-day expiry and add password protection if the deal terms are sensitive.
Send, then track opens, previews and signatures, and keep the completion receipt once both sign.

Mutual NDA request details

Email subject

Signing request: Mutual NDA

Default message

Please review and sign this mutual NDA before we share confidential information.

Signer setup

Two counterparties

Suggested expiry

14 days

Button label

Review and sign NDA

Best fit

Legal teams

Mutual NDA FAQs

Is an electronically signed NDA legally valid in Australia?

In general, Australian law recognises electronic signatures for most agreements where the parties consent and the method reliably identifies the signer. An NDA is usually a standard contract, so e-signature is commonly accepted. This is general information, not legal advice; check your own circumstances.

Why use a mutual NDA instead of a one-way NDA?

A mutual NDA protects both parties when each will disclose confidential information. A one-way NDA only binds the party receiving information, so it suits situations where disclosure flows in a single direction.

Can the other party see my NDA before they sign?

Yes. Cosign sends each signer a private link to preview the full document before signing. Cosign keeps the document private and does not publish or allow it to be indexed by search engines.

What happens if the NDA expires before it is signed?

If the 14-day expiry passes, the link stops working and the request lapses. You can send a fresh request with a new link, which keeps stale, unsigned NDAs from staying open.

Do both parties need to sign for a mutual NDA to take effect?

A mutual NDA generally binds both parties only once each has signed. Cosign tracks both signers and issues a completion receipt so you can confirm the agreement is fully executed.