Terms and Conditions
Welcome to Heartfelt Editorial Services, provided by Kourtney Schmiedeke. Prior to proceeding with any editing services, I kindly request that you take a moment to thoroughly review and comprehend the following terms and conditions. By choosing to utilize my services, you indicate your acceptance and commitment to adhere to these Terms. Your acknowledgment and cooperation with these terms are highly appreciated.
Communication
My preferred method of communication is primarily through email.
My response times typically range from 24 to 48 hours or within five business days during regular business hours (CST):
- Monday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM - 7:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday: CLOSED
- Sunday: CLOSED
*Please note that I am closed on Federal Holidays.*
Editing Stage
**Writers must complete Developmental Editing (Stage 1 of Editing)**
Prior to booking editing services with me.
Ownership of Work
Intellectual Property:
The work I edit remains your intellectual property. I do not assert any ownership or claim to copyright over your original manuscript. Your rights and ownership are fully retained.
Testimonials
Use of Testimonials:
I actively seek testimonials from clients to provide prospective clients with firsthand insights into the quality and impact of my editing services.
Your feedback is invaluable, and I would greatly appreciate your permission to feature your testimonials or reviews on my website.
Rest assured that your endorsement will be used exclusively in marketing and promotional materials with your explicit approval, respecting your preferences and privacy.
Manuscript Backup
Data Security:
Your work's safety during the editing process is a priority. I am committed to maintaining a secure backup copy of your manuscript for
90 days to ensure that your work is protected.
Availability During Editing
Timely Communication:
I will be available for communication during the editing process via email within 24 to 48 business hours. While response times may vary based on the nature of the inquiry, my aim is to provide prompt and efficient communication.
Confidentiality
Privacy Assurance:
Your manuscript content and any information shared with me during the editing process will be held in strict confidence. I will not disclose your sensitive or proprietary information to any third party.
Copyright and Plagiarism
Client Responsibility:
It's important to emphasize that you, the client, are responsible for ensuring your manuscript does not contain plagiarized content. The work you submit for editing must be original or correctly attributed to its source.
Liability for Errors
Editing Disclaimer:
While I strive to deliver accurate and high-quality editing services, I am not liable for errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the final edited manuscript. This includes errors that may have been present in the original content.
Payment
Payment Terms:
The specific payment terms, including the payment structure and amounts, will be detailed in the individual service agreement and contract I provide you. This ensures transparency and clarity regarding payment expectations.
Refund Policy
Our Commitment:
At Heartfelt Editorial Services LLC, I strive to provide exceptional editing services tailored to each client's needs. My goal is to ensure your manuscript is polished to the highest standard, and I work diligently to achieve this.
Refund Policy:
Initial Consultation:
I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your project and ensure my services align with your expectations.
I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your project and ensure my services align with your expectations.
Satisfaction Guarantee:
If you are not satisfied with the initial edit (e.g., the first 10% of the manuscript), you can request a revision. I will work with you to address your concerns and make necessary adjustments.
If you are not satisfied with the initial edit (e.g., the first 10% of the manuscript), you can request a revision. I will work with you to address your concerns and make necessary adjustments.
Revisions:
I offer up to two rounds of revisions, which are included in the service fee. Additional revisions can be requested at an agreed-upon hourly rate.
Refund Requests:
Refund requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. To be eligible for a refund, the request must be submitted within 7 days of receiving the completed manuscript.
Refunds are only considered if significant issues persist after the revision process. Specific details and examples of the issues must be provided.
Refunds are only considered if significant issues persist after the revision process. Specific details and examples of the issues must be provided.
Non-Refundable Situations:
Refunds are not provided for changes in the author's preferences or direction after the editing process has started.
Refunds are not available for completed services if no significant issues are identified.
Refunds are not available for completed services if no significant issues are identified.
Partial Refunds:
If a refund is deemed necessary, a partial refund may be offered based on the amount of work completed. The refunded amount will be calculated proportionally to the remaining work.
Communication and Resolution:
I encourage open communication throughout the editing process. Please contact me immediately if you have any concerns or questions. I am committed to resolving issues promptly and professionally.
Communication
Open Communication:
Effective communication is the cornerstone of our collaboration. I encourage you to openly discuss any issues, concerns, or requests with me during the editing process. It's my commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful partnership.
Base Month Deadline and Surcharges
Default Deadline:
Unless you provide an alternate deadline, there is a base month deadline, typically set at 30 days.
Surcharges:
*Does not apply to books longer than 35,000 words. Standard turnaround remains for longer books. *
If you request a deadline shorter than the base month deadline, surcharges may apply.
10% Surcharge: for a one-month turnaround
20% Surcharge for a 4-week turnaround.
Contract options
Contract Options: Fixed-Term or Per-Book
At Heartfelt Editorial Services LLC, we offer flexible contract options to suit your specific needs. You can choose between a fixed-term contract or a per-book contract.
Fixed-Term Contract (e.g., One Year):
Commitment Period: We agree to collaborate for a specific, predefined period, such as one year.Ideal For: Clients with multiple projects or a consistent need for editing services over an extended period.
Benefits:
- Stability and priority access to my editing services for the agreed-upon duration.
- Consistent support and familiarity with your writing style and preferences.
Renewal: At the end of the contract term, we can discuss renewal or extension options if you wish to continue our collaboration.
Per-Book Contract:
Project Basis: We agree to collaborate on a project-by-project basis.Ideal For: Clients with sporadic editing requirements or those who prefer a "pay as you go" approach.
Benefits:
- Flexibility to engage my editing services for individual books as needed without a long-term commitment.
- Tailored agreements to each specific project's needs, accommodating varying lengths, complexities, and timings.
- Freedom to decide when and how to use my services.
Both options are designed to provide you with the flexibility and support necessary to achieve your writing goals. Whether you have ongoing projects or occasional editing needs, we are here to help you every step of the way.
Permanent Editor
Exclusive Editing Services:
Upon mutual agreement, I can serve as your dedicated editor, offering exclusive editing services for an extended period of up to three years. This arrangement provides a long-term partnership option for clients seeking continuous and comprehensive editing support for all books edited during this time.
- Long-Term Partnership: We establish a dedicated editor-client relationship for up to three years, ensuring consistency and a deep understanding of your writing style and needs.
- Exclusive Services: You receive priority access to my editing services, allowing for seamless and efficient collaboration on multiple projects.
Extension:
- This arrangement can be extended beyond the initial three-year term upon mutual agreement, ensuring ongoing, long-term editing assistance for your projects.
This exclusive service option is ideal for authors and publishers looking for a reliable and consistent editing partner to support their work over an extended period.
Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
Confidentiality Commitment:
To ensure the confidentiality of your information, manuscripts, and content, Heartfelt Editorial Services LLC will be bound by a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). The specific terms of this NDA will be provided separately and integrated by reference.
Intellectual Property Rights
Client Rights:
Your intellectual property rights are of utmost importance. You retain full ownership of your manuscript, and I will not use your work for personal gain or claim any form of ownership.
Additional Services
Scope of Work:
I want to emphasize the importance of defining the scope of work clearly. Any additional services or changes in scope must be agreed upon in writing and incorporated into our service agreement or contract.
Delivery Format
Delivery Method:
Your final edited manuscript will be delivered in the format we agreed upon, which will include [ Tracked changes in Microsoft Word or Google Docs]. This ensures you know what to expect when receiving your edited work.
Liability for Errors
Editing Responsibility:
Rest assured that my commitment is to provide accurate and high-quality editing. If errors are identified, I am dedicated to addressing and rectifying them to the best of my ability.
Communication
Open and Transparent Communication:
Our collaboration's success hinges on open and effective communication. I'm committed to maintaining clear lines of communication, and I encourage you to discuss any issues, concerns, or requests promptly.
For More Information
You'll find additional details in the editing contract I'll provide after you become a client.