What Does A Court Reporter Do?
A court reporter plays a pivotal role in the documenting of depositions, hearings, and various other courtroom proceedings. Court reporters, also known as stenographers, use stenotype machines to provide a record that will be used for the transcript. These stenotype machines are unlike common keyboards and allow reporters to phonetically type multiple letters per stroke, resulting in maximum efficiency in the courtroom. Stenotype machines are equipped with word processing capabilities that have the ability to translate each reporter’s shorthand language into the written English language while the stenographer is typing.
There are various types of reporters, but the most common are audio reporters and stenographers. Audio reporters differ in that they are recording the proceedings and not physically typing up what is being said at the time of the court room proceeding. Afterwards, they will either transcribe the audio recording on their own, or send it out to be transcribed by another resource. Stenographers actually type up what is being said on the record and will only use their recordings as a supplement if they so choose. The more experienced stenographers also have the ability to type in real time with at least 95% accuracy as a requirement of the NCRA (National Court Reporter’s Association).
When discussing the concept of court reporters, it is important to note their role as independent keepers of the record. This requires every reporter to be impartial to either side. Court reporters are all independent contractors that are simply vetted. Overall, this requirement is important when trying to maintain objectivity during the legal process. In order to become a court reporter in some states, one must obtain certification. Other states, and the District of Columbia, do not require certification.
Stenographers and audio reporters are able to earn their accreditations a variety of different ways such as: technical school, vocational school, or college. Reporters can even obtain their certification online as well. It is very important that the school chosen is certified by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) or The National Verbatim Reporters Association (NVRA). It is not a requirement for non-government agencies; however, government agencies do not use reporters that have attended an institution without this certification. The government also offers a specialized field for Federal Reporters. Court reporters who want to work in a federal court can earn a Federal Certified Realtime Reporter (FCRR) certification. As with most degrees, once schooling has been completed, testing is required in order to earn certification. A Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) is the most common type of reporter certification. In order to receive this accreditation, it is required to pass a series of three timed tests. Of course there are many types of certifications that can be pursued, but it is important to note which avenue appeals the most to one’s interest.
