What is the penalty for not including a Table of Contents in a transcript?

The penalty for not including a Table of Contents in a transcript is a deduction of points, specifically three points. In the context of Michigan court reporting certification, maintaining accuracy and adherence to formatting guidelines is crucial. The Table of Contents serves to provide a roadmap for the reader, enhancing the usability and organization of the transcript.

Deducting points reflects the need for compliance with established standards without being overly punitive. It emphasizes the importance of proper documentation while still allowing aspiring court reporters the opportunity to succeed. In most scenarios, penalties that involve disqualification, requiring retakes of the exam, or imposing fines would generally be reserved for more serious infractions than a formatting oversight. Thus, a three-point deduction is both a fair and educational approach to correcting minor mistakes in court reporting practices.