Legal Editing
Legal editing is unique editorial discipline.
“Madeline did a phenomenal job editing my SJD dissertation. Legal writing can be abstruse and highly technical, and Madeline displayed a high level of skill in working within its parameters. She impressed me with her attention to detail and ability to meet my very demanding schedule. I recommend her fully to anyone in need of an editor at the PhD or SJD level.”
— Douglas L. Waters
Post-Doctoral Fellow in Native American Religion, Center for the Study of Law and Religion, Emory University School of Law
Besides editing the writing itself, legal documents include extra features. They have exhaustive footnotes, a table of authorities, and often an index.
It has a direct impact on individual lives and broader society. Any lack of clarity can introduce new social conflict. It’s imperative for editors to be cognizant of that and to ensure that no uncertainty is introduced. Stylistic flair and creative word choice take a back seat to direct, clear, and concise verbiage.
The Blue Book differs from other style guides, and knowing the ins and outs is its own skill set.
Luckily, I know how to do it.
