I was recently asked to make changes on some brochure copy that another copywriter did. I was told to keep the changes to a minimum...just do some minor touch-ups on the grammar which I had earlier mentioned as being inconsistent. I said 'yes' only to realise later that I can't do it.

The overall copy is quite badly written and would require a major overhaul. I can't just fix grammar, without looking at the overall sentence structure and tone, and finally the whole paragraph. Each one is linked to the other. However, the client's client is insisting on using their copywriter's version and they are sticking to that original mush. So what am I do? My hands are figuratively tied.

And after much deliberation that could cost me the job, I told my client to get their client's copywriter to fix it himself which I very much doubt he would do. I don't think another copywriter should fix another one's mess (and then only a little when the whole chunk is utter crap!) so that the original guy gets the credit. I don't think it is at all professional.