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Legal Proofreader Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Accurately reviewing complex legal documents and producing the related digital files, within the ... proofreader marks and symbols by writing and/or inserting text callouts using the Acrobat/Word ...

Accurately reviewing complex legal documents and producing the related digital files, within the ... proofreader marks and symbols by writing and/or inserting text callouts using the Acrobat/Word ...

Accurately reviewing complex legal documents and producing the related digital files, within the ... proofreader marks and symbols by writing and/or inserting text callouts using the Acrobat/Word ...

Legal Proofreader information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do legal proofreader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for legal proofreader in Raleigh, NC is $26.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Legal Proofreader, and why are they important?

To excel as a Legal Proofreader, strong attention to detail, excellent grammar, and a solid understanding of legal terminology are essential, often supported by a degree in English, law, or related fields. Familiarity with legal document management systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and citation tools like The Bluebook is typically required. Outstanding time management, discretion, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring the accuracy and professionalism of legal documents, which directly impacts case outcomes and client trust.

What are some common challenges faced by Legal Proofreaders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Legal Proofreaders often work under tight deadlines and must maintain a high level of accuracy when reviewing complex legal documents. Managing large volumes of text with specialized terminology can be challenging, especially when documents are lengthy or contain last-minute edits. Effective strategies include developing strong attention to detail, using checklists to ensure consistency, and leveraging proofreading tools. Collaborating closely with attorneys and paralegals also helps clarify ambiguous language and resolve discrepancies, ensuring documents meet professional standards.

What does a legal proofreader do?

A legal proofreader reviews legal documents such as contracts, briefs, and court filings to ensure accuracy, consistency, and proper formatting. They check for grammatical errors, correct legal terminology, and adherence to style guides, often using tools like track changes and legal dictionaries. Attention to detail and knowledge of legal language are essential for this role.

How do I become a legal proofreader?

To become a legal proofreader, you typically need strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with legal terminology. A background in law, English, or related fields is helpful, and some employers prefer candidates with certification in proofreading or editing. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can also improve job prospects.

What qualifications do you need to be a proofreader?

Legal proofreaders typically need a strong command of language, excellent attention to detail, and knowledge of legal terminology. A bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a related field is often preferred, along with experience in editing or proofreading. Familiarity with legal documents and proficiency in editing tools can also be beneficial.

Are legal proofreaders in demand?

Legal proofreaders are in steady demand due to the need for accuracy in legal documents, contracts, and court materials. The role often requires strong attention to detail, familiarity with legal terminology, and proficiency with editing tools, making it a specialized and valuable skill in the legal industry.

What are Legal Proofreaders?

Legal Proofreaders are professionals who review legal documents for accuracy, clarity, and proper formatting. They focus on identifying and correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation, and typographical errors, ensuring the documents comply with legal standards and firm guidelines. Legal Proofreaders may also check citations, cross-references, and the consistency of terminology throughout the documents. Their attention to detail helps prevent costly mistakes and maintains the credibility of legal documents. This role is vital in law firms, corporate legal departments, and publishing companies specializing in legal materials.

What is the difference between Legal Proofreader vs Legal Editor?

AspectLegal ProofreaderLegal Editor
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in law, English, or related field; proofreading certifications are a plusOften requires a law degree or legal background; editing certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentLegal firms, publishing houses, law departmentsLegal publishing, law firms, corporate legal departments
Primary FocusChecking for grammatical, typographical, and formatting errorsEnsuring clarity, accuracy, and legal consistency in content

Legal Proofreaders focus on correcting language errors, while Legal Editors handle content accuracy and legal consistency. Both roles require legal knowledge and attention to detail, but their responsibilities differ in scope and depth.

What Does a Legal Proofreader Do?

As a legal proofreader, you work at a law firm or in the legal department of a corporation. Your duties and responsibilities revolve around checking documents created by lawyers and paralegals and correcting errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. In some positions, you are also expected to edit the document and make suggestions regarding word choice and sentence structure. You provide input regarding the correct style for citations and work to ensure that the document is precise, well-organized, and properly formatted and that all terms have the appropriate definition. You also confirm that documents adhere to the firm’s style guidelines and use preferred diction and syntax.

What are the most commonly searched types of Legal Proofreader jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Legal Proofreader jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Legal Proofreader jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Legal Proofreader jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Legal Proofreader jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Legal Proofreader jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Legal Proofreader jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Legal Proofreader job openings:
Infographic showing various Legal Proofreader job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,911 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Document Specialist Proofreader

The Document Specialists ("DS") team is responsible for producing high quality legal and marketing documentation to all staff in the firm (including fee earners), globally.

As a proofreader, you will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy of department work product, including revisions, original input, conversions, and tables of authorities. The proofreader also checks grammar, punctuation, syntax, spelling, punctuation, style, formatting, and drafting consistency in assigned documents and recommends changes to ensure clarity and conformity with Freshfields house style.

Key responsibilities and deliverables

  • Accurately reviewing complex legal documents and producing the related digital files, within the required timescales, seeking clarification when necessary.
  • Completing sense, grammar and consistency read-throughs of standard legal documents and marketing materials including full read-throughs and skim reads.
  • Ensuring that drafting and formatting are consistent, and work together logically and accurately to display document content as comprehensibly as possible.
  • Identifying formatting inconsistencies which impact content clarity (involving paragraph distribution, indent, alignment, spacing, character level formatting and pagination), suggesting alternatives for improved readability and noting any queries for lawyers (or other author).
  • Applying sophisticated understanding of outlining (including both numbered and non-numbered headings, and continuation paragraphs), to ensure logical allocation of content across outline levels, and throughout document, and suggesting alternatives for improvement.
  • Proofreading documents for adherence to Freshfields house style and applicable templates.
  • Suggesting alternatives to incorrect grammar, punctuation and awkward syntax, and marking corrections on proofs using standard proofreader marks and symbols by writing and/or inserting text callouts using the Acrobat/Word commenting tool.
  • Proofreading tables of authorities for accuracy and format.
  • Rechecking corrected documents against mark-up for accurate integration of changes and quality assurance.
  • Completing cross-reference checks and defined terms checks in complex legal agreements such as Merger Agreements, Credit Agreements, Stock Purchase Agreements, etc.
  • Creating, formatting, and updating a wide range of complex documents, reports, spreadsheets, and presentations, adhering to firm house style, applicable templates and branding standards, and utilizing the appropriate tools to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
  • Converting documents across various applications into house style, using firm templates, add-ins, styles and schemes and verifying accuracy of language and formatting.
  • Troubleshooting textual, graphic, and printing issues across various applications packages.
  • Handling sensitive and/or confidential documents and information in accordance with Freshfields policies.
  • Adhering to firm best practices as related to all submissions.
  • Ensuring own technical skills are maintained and updated, including developing extensive knowledge of the firm's global document templates.
  • Supporting cross function working with other functions such as Client Delivery Group, Marketing and Business Development.
  • Supporting team strategy and delivery targets.
  • Supporting workflow processes including logging work submissions and negotiating deadlines as required. Working collaboratively with workflow coordinators across various locations, as well as with lawyers and business services professionals.
  • Ensuring the firm's risk procedures are adhered to at all times.

Key requirements

  • Degree in relevant subjects such as English language, English literature, creative writing and similar.
  • A minimum of three (3) years proofreading experience at a law firm, financial center, or professional services organization.
  • Previous corporate paralegal experience in a large law firm would be an advantage but is not essential.
  • Paralegal Certificate, or law degree a plus.
  • Exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills with a sound knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
  • Excellent attention to detail with emphasis on speed, accuracy and quality.
  • Able to concentrate on material that may be lengthy, dense, or technical.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Familiarity with Blue Book, MLA, Chicago and other standard citation styles.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Adobe, Kofax).
  • Experience using Legal Tech such as Litera Desktop.
  • An understanding of project terminology and approaches.
  • Experience using a legal document management system.
  • Ability to work in accordance with established processes.
  • Ability to complete work accurately to tight deadlines when required.
  • Excellent attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to work overtime as required by business needs.

EEO Statement Freshfields US LLP is proud to be an equal employment employer. Our policies and practices will be free from unlawful discrimination based upon race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship, immigration status, ancestry, age, marital status, protected veteran status, military service, disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law. We strive to promote an atmosphere that encourages equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment. Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Freshfields US LLP Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer US LLP is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in job application procedures.