9. Independent contractor
Contractor shall perform the Services hereunder as an independent consultant. Nothing in this Agreement shall in any way be construed to constitute Contractor as an agent, employee, or representative of Design Firm. Since Contractor is not an employee of Design Firm, it is understood that neither Contractor nor any of its employees is entitled to any employee benefits during the Term. Contractor shall pay all necessary local, state, or federal taxes, including but not limited to withholding taxes, workers' compensation, FICA, and unemployment taxes for Contractor and its employees. Contractor acknowledges and agrees that Contractor is obligated to report as income all compensation received by Contractor pursuant to this Agreement, and Contractor agrees to indemnify Design Firm and hold it harmless to the extent of any obligation imposed on Design Firm (i) to pay withholding taxes or similar items or (ii) resulting from Contractor's being determined not to be an independent contractor. In the performance of all Services hereunder, Contractor shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations.