About - Heritage Script

About Heritage Script

I've spent over 30 years working as a legal secretary at some of London's most prestigious law firms. During those decades, I became intimately familiar with legal language, document structures, and the peculiarities of historical legal writing.

But my real passion has always been family history. I understand the frustration of finding a crucial document—especially for my clients in the USA, Australia, and Canada who've discovered British ancestry records but can't read 17th-19th century English handwriting.

That's why I started this service. I have the professional expertise to read these documents. Based in England, I'm perfectly positioned to provide accurate transcriptions of British historical documents for international researchers.

Historical ledger with quill pen and ink

My Expertise

Legal Background

30+ years as a legal secretary in top London law firms gave me deep knowledge of legal terminology, document types, and archaic legal language that appears in wills, deeds, and court records.

Paleography Skills

Trained in reading historical handwriting styles including secretary hand, court hand, and various 17th-19th century scripts. I can decipher what looks like incomprehensible scrawl to most people.

Understanding Context

As an active family historian myself, I understand what information matters to researchers. I don't just transcribe mechanically—I can highlight names, dates, and places that will be important to your research.

Note: I provide transcription services only. I am not a trained genealogist and do not offer research services or advice on research strategy.

Attention to Detail

Legal work demands precision. Every name, date, and place could be crucial to your research. I mark uncertain readings clearly so you know exactly what's definite and what needs verification.

Local Knowledge

Based in West Sussex, with particular expertise in Sussex and South-East England records—though I work with documents from anywhere in the English-speaking world.

Professional Standards

Every transcription is delivered as a properly formatted Word document, ready to use in your research. Clear, readable, and professionally presented.

What Makes My Service Different

Context, Not Just Text

I explain archaic terms and legal phrases so you understand what you're reading, not just what the words say.

Honest About Uncertainty

If a word is unclear, I mark it as [?uncertain]. You deserve to know what's definite and what needs further investigation.

Fast Turnaround

Most documents transcribed within 2-5 days. Rush service available for urgent research needs.

Fair Pricing

Every project quoted individually based on actual complexity and time required. No hidden fees, no surprises.

Personal Service

You work directly with me, not a faceless company. I answer questions about the transcription process and timeline.

Member of SFHG

Active member of Sussex Family History Group, engaged with the family history community and committed to high professional transcription standards.

Published Work

Unlocking the Past: Transcribing Historical Documents

Sussex Family History Group Journal, 2026

A practical guide for family historians on deciphering old handwriting, understanding legal terminology, and getting the most from historical documents. Features a case study of a 1749 will belonging to a member of the notorious Hawkhurst Gang of smugglers.

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