Guide to Rewriting Legal Documents: Tips and Tools

For those interested in legal document preparation, rewriting legal documents is a crucial skill. This article provides a comprehensive guide, including educational pathways and practical tips on using word processors effectively for this task.

Pathways to Legal Document Rewriting

If you are passionate about legal document rewriting, the journey usually begins with a strong educational foundation. Obtaining a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) is the initial step, after which one can apply to a prestigious law school near their location. Law schools offer rigorous academic training and prepare students for the bar exam, which is a necessary hurdle before one can legally practice law in their state and engage in activities such as rewriting legal documents.

There are typically two main pathways to completing law school: full-time day students who complete their studies in three years or part-time night students who can extend the process to four years. After successful completion of law school and passing the bar exam, law graduates can become members of their state's bar association and proceed to rewrite legal documents as part of their professional responsibilities.

Preparing for Document Rewriting

When it comes to preparing to rewrite legal documents, it is essential to have the correct format and version of the document. Most legal documents that require rewriting originate from within the author's office, already saved in a Word document. This format is ideal for immediate editing, as the document's structure and content are already familiar and format-specific to the word processor.

However, if a document is provided in a PDF format from an external source, the process becomes slightly more complex. In such cases, a simple yet effective workaround is to scan the PDF or have it scanned and then convert it into a Word document. Word processors such as Microsoft Word offer the ability to import and convert PDFs, making the process straightforward. This method allows for comprehensive editing and reformatting, ensuring the document meets the standards required for legal practice.

It is also beneficial to have direct access to the author of the document. Requesting the Word version of the document from the author and having them send it over via email is typically the most efficient method. This approach ensures that the original author's intentions and variables are captured and preserved, leading to a more accurate and reliable rewrite. By maintaining open communication with the author, any necessary adjustments or clarifications can be made promptly and effectively.

The Importance of Using Word Processors

When it comes to working on legal documents, the use of a word processor is practically indispensable. Word processors offer a range of features and tools that cater specifically to the needs of legal document preparation. They provide essential functionalities such as:

Template options – many word processors offer templates designed for specific legal document types, ensuring that the document adheres to the necessary legal formalities. Formatting tools – these tools help maintain consistent and professional formatting throughout the document, which is crucial for legal documents to be taken seriously. Track changes and reviewing features – these features allow the editor to easily track any changes made, ensuring transparency and accountability in the rewriting process. Spell check and grammar check – these features help maintain high-quality writing standards, which is particularly important in legal documents. Integration with legal databases – many advanced word processors can be integrated with legal databases, offering up-to-date legal information and referencing possibilities.

Using a powerful and reliable word processor undoubtedly enhances the quality and efficiency of legal document rewriting, making it a valuable skill for any aspiring legal professional.

Conclusion

Legal document rewriting is a meticulous and crucial task that requires a blend of legal knowledge, drafting skills, and the use of efficient tools. Starting with a solid educational foundation, understanding the proper document preparation tools, and maintaining clear communication with the document author are key steps in achieving high-quality legal documents. As technology continues to evolve, staying updated with the latest word processor tools and practices will ensure that you can continue to excel in this vital area of legal practice.