A court reporter creates written transcripts of spoken words, often for legal proceedings, using methods such as stenography or electronic recording. They may also provide closed captioning and real-time translation services. Training can take two to three years, and job growth is expected in real-time reporting.
A court reporter creates a written transcript in situations that require a word-for-word account of spoken words. Many of these situations involve legal proceedings, but they can also involve closed captioning and real-time translation services for people with hearing impairments. A court reporter has the ultimate responsibility for providing an accurate and complete record.
A court reporter can create a transcript of depositions, meetings, speeches or other verbal conversations. In some locations, court reporters also assist judges and attorneys in areas of research or organization. Some states require a court reporter to be a notary public, and some require testing for state licensure.
There are several methods of judicial communication. Stenography, the most common method, involves the use of a stenotype machine, which allows the reporter to press various keys that represent sounds, words, and phrases. Keystrokes produce symbols that are electronically recorded and then translated and displayed as text. To train for this type of legal complaint, the student must attend courses for about two to three years at a vocational or technical school or college.
The real-time reports from the courts also involve a stenotype machine. However, in real-time reporting, the machine is linked to a computer that instantly displays text on a screen. Courts, classes, meetings, and closed-captioned television all use this method of judicial communication. This area of court reporting is expected to experience a high rate of job growth.
Electronic reporting is another form of court reporting. It involves the use of analogue or digital equipment to record legal proceedings. From this audio recording, an electronic court reporter takes notes and ensures the recording is clear and of high quality, and then produces a written transcript of the recording. This type of court reporting is learned on the job.
Voice writing is yet another method of forensic reporting. Instead of a steno machine, this method involves the use of a voice silencer. The court reporter repeats the testimony in a handheld mask that contains a microphone. The court reporter must also verbalize emotional reactions and gestures. The voice squelch prevents others in the room from hearing the repeated testimonies and comments. Training to become a voice writer takes approximately one year or less.
A court reporter may work in the courtroom, for a lawyer or government agency, for a court reporting agency, or for television networks or cable stations.
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