VWC Style Guide

VWC STYLE GUIDE

Rev. 02/24

Addresses When possible, use the following guidelines: Abbreviations with a period are used. For example: St., Ave., Apt., Blvd. P.O. Box Zip codes should include the +4 digits on the end, whenever possible. The 4+ codes do not need to be added on informal or educational/outreach documents. VWC’s system automatically checks addresses through the USPS and follows the USPS format. To check an address format, visit https://tools.usps.com/zip-code-lookup.htm?byaddress. Also Prefer : also was; may also Not: was also; also may Ampersand (&) The ampersand (&) should not be used in place of “and.” An exception is if the ampersand is part of a business name. For example: Smith & Associates. Exceptions include: system character limitations and when the ampersand is part of a business name. For example: Smith & Associates.” Assertion of Rights Also known as a protective filing, meaning that an injured worker wishes to protect their rights, but request no action be taken on the claim at the present time. Generally, use the term “assertion of rights” rather than “protective filing” when referring to Claimants cases. Health Care Providers do not have a separate form to use for filing an Assertion of Rights, so they use the term “protective filing.” Attributions for direct quotes Attribution should be inserted after the first natural pause. “In other words,” he says, “the attribution can be in the middle of a sentence.” Attorney Do not use the term lawyer, always use attorney. Lawyer is approved for use by Ombuds Department. Counsel is also acceptable for group/firm.

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