You're reviewing a contract draft from opposing counsel. Three clauses need pushback, two need clarification, one looks fine. Your client expects a clear, traceable review they can act on.
Legal PDF markup is its own discipline. Flint gives you the basics; here's how to use them professionally.
Highlight clauses, attach analysis
Open annotate PDF, drop the contract. Highlight each clause that needs comment. Attach a sticky note with your analysis — what the clause says, what the problem is, what you propose. Colour-code: red for major issues, yellow for needs-clarification, green for acceptable.
Use shapes for cross-clause references
When clause 7.3 depends on definitions in 2.1, draw a line or use shapes to connect them. Visual links highlight inconsistencies — useful when an amended clause didn't propagate to dependent clauses. Reviewers spot these patterns faster with visual cues.
Propose specific language
Don't just say 'this clause is bad'. Type the proposed replacement language in the comment. 'Suggest replacing "sole discretion" with "reasonable discretion, exercised in good faith".' Specific replacement language is easier to negotiate from than vague objections.
Pair with a redline if appropriate
PDF annotations are good for review and discussion. For formal redlining (markup of proposed changes that the other side accepts or rejects), Word's track changes is still the dominant format. PDF annotations for first-pass review; redline in Word for the negotiation phase.
FAQ
Is PDF annotation good evidence of review?
Annotations are timestamped and authored. They show what you reviewed and when, which can support a review trail. But court evidence rules vary — consult on your specific case.
Can I redact and annotate the same file?
Yes. Redact first (permanent), then annotate (cosmetic). Both in Flint and annotate.
How do I share annotations with co-counsel?
Save the annotated PDF, share. They see your annotations in their reader. They can add their own and send back.
Does this work for trial exhibits?
Annotations are useful for internal preparation. Trial exhibits typically need to be filed clean — annotate copies, not the originals.
Highlight, analyse, propose, save. Review legal PDFs.