Q. How do we get started?
A. I'm glad you asked! Please follow the steps below:
PLEASE NOTE: When downloaded, the New Client Intake Form and the Preference Sheet (both available on the SUBMIT WORK page) will open as fillable MS Word documents. In order to fill in the forms electronically and return them to me, please just click on the form field and enter the appropriate information. If a "checkbox" is appearing, please double click on the appropriate checkbox and then select "checked" when the sub-menu appears and then select "OK." Completed forms can be returned to contact@scopist4u.com or via facsimile to (623) 248-7803. Please direct any requests for references, non-disclosure agreements, and IRS Form W-9 to the above email.
Building a professional relationship requires an investment of time and communication from both parties. Prior to sending your first job, please expect to spend a few minutes discussing your requirements and expectations for the job as well as completing the preference sheet provided. This will help ensure you receive the best possible service.
PLEASE NOTE: Our first time working together, I prefer to limit scoping assignments to between 50 and 75 pages with a turnaround of no less than four days and proofreading assignments to no more than 100 pages with a turnaround no less than two days.
Q. What is your background?
A. To learn more about my background, education and training, please visit my MEET YOUR SCOPIST page. I began working with both freelance and official reporters in 2018. I hold an Associate of Art in Conference and Court Reporting along with a paralegal certificate from an ABA approved program. I have over 25 years of relevant work experience also as a legal assistant.
I offer my clients a very high level of professionalism, with tremendous respect and admiration for their finalized work products, as well familiarity with the deposition process, court proceedings, and other legal and medical terminology used in transcripts acquired during my 25-year career as a litigation assistant and paralegal.
Q. Can you provide references I can contact about your work?
A. Yes. Upon request, I will gladly provide the contact information from one of my longtime clients who has also served as a business mentor. Additional references are available upon request.
Q. Will you scope or proof a “test” job so I can see your work?
A. Yes. You are welcome to send up to 25 pages from one of your recent transcripts, and I’ll be happy to provide you with a small sampling of my work product.
Q. Will my transcript be scoped/proofed to my preferences?
A. Absolutely! Preferences reflected on your completed preference sheet will always be strictly adhered to.
Q. Which reference sources do you use?
A. My primary reference sources are Lillian Morson’s English Guide for Court Reporters (LMEG), Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, and client preferences as indicated on your completed preference sheet that all reporters are asked to complete. Also, Secondary reference sources include Margie Wakeman Wells’ Bad Grammar/Good Punctuation (BGGP), The Gregg Reference Manual, and unlimited internet research.
Q. Will I get my work back on time?
A. Yes. I will not commit to a job unless I am positive I can meet your requested deadline. This is my full-time job and also my only source of income, so I take my commitment to you very seriously. In the event of an unforeseen emergency (injury, illness, natural disaster, power outage, etc.), you will be notified immediately of any possible delay and the corresponding reason for any anticipated delay.
Q. Can you guarantee my transcript will be 100% free of errors?
A. Even the most adept and experienced scopists and proofreaders occasionally miss things now and then. However, working as a team with a scopist and/or proofreader will ensure your transcript is as close to perfect as possible. If you do find an error in your transcript, please bring it to my attention so that I may improve the service I provide to you.
Q. Will my work remain confidential?
A. Absolutely. I will gladly sign a confidentiality agreement for your peace of mind.
Q. Do you read steno, and will you send updates for my dictionary?
A. Yes and yes!
Q. What reference do you use for punctuation guidance?
A. Morson's English Guide for Court Reporters by Lillian Morson.
Q. How long do you retain jobs you've completed?
A. I keep all completed work for a period of one year from the date the completed job is returned to the reporter. If at any time during those 12 months you need a file re-sent, I will be more than happy to accommodate your request.