This guide has been developed to support communities and paralegals as they enter into and negotiate contracts with people and parties outside of the community that are interesting in acquiring land. It includes information about the following types of contracts – contracts between communities and investors, conservation contracts, and contracts between different communities. With the help of this guide, communities will understand the legal framework governing such contracts, key terms that they should look out for, who should be involved in the drafting and negotiating process, and the rights and obligations of the parties involved.

This guide will help communities understand the process of voluntary acquisition of their land – either through absolute ownership or leasehold. Community members will understand what they need to look out for and how to always ensure that in all their engagements – they protect their interests and rights. Each section will have a series of questions that the community members can consider when negotiating with third parties.l