Court Reporters
Overview
Court reporters create word-for-word transcripts of legal proceedings, depositions, and hearings using specialized stenography machines that can capture speech at lightning speed. They also provide real-time captioning for TV shows, business meetings, and public events to help people who are deaf or hard of hearing. This career combines technology skills with language precision, and many court reporters work flexible schedules, attending various events from courtrooms to corporate boardrooms. The job requires completing a specialized training program and developing exceptional typing and listening skills.
Did you know?
Most states require court transcribers to obtain professional certification or licensing, with specific educational requirements and ongoing continuing education credits.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$68,727.69 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Programming
Key Responsibilities
- Record symbols on computer storage media and use computer aided transcription to translate and display them as text.
- Type court orders for judges.
- Respond to requests during court sessions to read portions of the proceedings already recorded.
- Verify accuracy of transcripts by checking copies against original records of proceedings and accuracy of rulings by checking with judges.
- Provide transcripts of proceedings upon request of judges, lawyers, or the public.
- Record verbatim proceedings of courts, legislative assemblies, committee meetings, and other proceedings, using computerized recording equipment, electronic stenograph machines, or stenomasks.
- Record depositions and other proceedings for attorneys.
- Transcribe recorded proceedings in accordance with established formats.
- Proofread transcripts for correct spelling of words.
- Ask speakers to clarify inaudible statements.
- File a legible transcript of records of a court case with the court clerk's office.
- Take notes in shorthand or use a stenotype or shorthand machine that prints letters on a paper tape.
- File and store shorthand notes of court session.
- Log and store exhibits from court proceedings.
Career Considerations
State Certification Requirements
Most states require court transcribers to obtain professional certification or licensing, with specific educational requirements and ongoing continuing education credits.
Technology Proficiency
Modern court transcribers must master stenotype machines, digital recording systems, and specialized transcription software to meet accuracy and speed standards.
Irregular Work Schedule
Court transcribers often work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends, and may need to travel for depositions and out-of-town proceedings.