Highlighters & AI: How I Navigate the New World of Contract Review

I’m reviewing a hefty agreement. My desk? An organised battlefield of colour-coded tabs, six shades of neon highlighters, a tracked version open on screen — and handwritten notes so sharp they could poke an eye out.

I'm in the zone.

Then AI slides in — smooth, efficient, unblinking — and offers up:

“Clause 12 feels risky.”
“This NDA lacks detail.”

So… is my tried-and-true, pen-and-paper approach still relevant in today’s digital world?

Absolutely. But it is evolving — and I’m evolving with it.
Here’s what that looks like.

The Traditional Way: Personal. Practical. Proven.

This is still how I do what I do — and how I do it well.

There’s something powerful about the “classic” approach to reviewing documents — grounded, focused, and refreshingly distraction-free.

  • Highlighting terms that just don’t sit right
  • Tagging clauses that warrant a second look
  • Flipping through pages with intent (and a flat white in hand)

It’s not about nostalgia. It’s about control, clarity, and professional judgment — something software can’t replicate.

This method is human — and it works.

The New Way: AI to the Rescue (Kind Of)

Let’s be honest — AI brings serious value to the table.
It can:

  • Flag ambiguous or non-standard language
  • Summarise dense legal content in seconds
  • Identify key clauses at lightning speed
  • Compare multiple versions of a document without breaking a sweat

This isn’t the future — this is right now.
For professionals juggling multiple contracts and compliance documents, AI is a productivity powerhouse and its here to stay.

But Let’s Be Clear: AI Still Has a Boss — You.

AI can scan, detect, and flag. But it can’t understand context.
It doesn’t know:

  • Subtle tone shifts that signal bigger risks
  • Client history, stakeholder dynamics, or business nuance
  • When “technically correct” is commercially wrong

That’s where I come in.
I may use AI as a support tool, but not as a substitute. It helps surface issues, but only human experience can decide what really matters.

So yes — trust AI.
But trust your brain more.

With me, you're paying for insight, context, and confidence — things no algorithm can replicate.

Tabs & Tech: The Consultant’s Dream Team

So, no — my highlighters aren’t headed for the bin.
They’ve simply gained a new teammate: Artificial Intelligence.

At GR Ace Legal Compliance, I help individuals and business professionals:

  • Understand contracts — without the jargon headache
  • Review documents confidently and efficiently
  • Combine smart tools with smarter human thinking

Because success today isn’t about choosing between tradition and tech — it’s about combining them intelligently. And keeping your brain firmly in the driver’s seat.

Need a Second Set of Eyes?

At GR Ace Legal Compliance, I blend traditional care with modern tools to give you clarity — not confusion.

If you’re facing a contract, policy, or proposal that doesn’t feel quite right — let’s review it together. With experience, precision… and maybe just a touch of neon.

Get in touch at www.gracelegal.net or DM me at @grace.legal2025 or contact me via info@gracelegal.net.