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Not a Lawyer helps authors understand contracts, rights, copyright issues, and reversion requests.
Turn legal language into plain English.
Most authors sign contracts they do not fully understand because the language is dense, intimidating, and designed for lawyers. That confusion leads to bad deals, lost rights, and years of regret. Not a Lawyer exists to close that gap by translating legal language into plain English so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
This tool helps you understand what your contract actually says, what each clause means in practice, and where authors often lose leverage. It does not replace a lawyer. It makes you a better, more informed client before you ever talk to one.
When you upload a contract or submit a legal question, the tool generates:
- A clear plain English explanation of confusing clauses
- A summary of risks, red flags, and power imbalances
- Context for what is common, unusual, or restrictive in publishing contracts
- A set of smart questions to bring to your attorney or agent
You will walk away with clarity, confidence, and the ability to talk about your contract like a professional instead of guessing in the dark.
Use It To
- Get answers to legal questions.
- Decode publishing, agency, audio, and collaboration contracts
- Spot red flags before you sign away valuable rights
- Prepare informed questions for your attorney or agent
- Draft a professional rights reversion request letter
Why It Works
Authors do not need legal advice first. They need understanding first. This tool works because it reduces cognitive overload, translates legal jargon into everyday language, and highlights the practical consequences of each clause. That clarity increases confidence, improves negotiations, and leads to better decisions. Informed authors ask better questions, which leads to better outcomes.
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- Not a Literary Agent - Understand how agents think and negotiate
- Not A Copy Editor - Catch typos with a copy edit of your manuscript.
- Not A Dev Editor - Get a developmental edit on your manuscript.
FAQ
- What is Not a Lawyer? Not a Lawyer is an educational legal tool that helps authors understand contracts, legal terms, and rights related to publishing.
- Who should use this tool? Authors who are reviewing contracts, asking legal questions, or preparing for conversations with attorneys or agents.
- What does it create or check for? It explains contract clauses in plain English, highlights risks and red flags, and drafts courteous rights reversion request letters.
- How does it help authors? It gives authors clarity and confidence so they can make informed decisions and communicate effectively with professionals.
- How much does it cost? This tool is available to Novel Marketing patrons at the Patron Toolbox level and higher.
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