Are you currently working as a court reporter or planning to join this profession? You are probably aware of just how essential the work of a court reporter is to the smooth running of government agencies. 

Certified court reporters play a vital role when it comes to recording the proceedings of court cases and other legal matters. Due to the sensitive nature of the work that they do, court reporters are expected to maintain a very high level of professionalism. For this reason, a court reporter should develop certain attributes that will enable them to dispense their work well. 

Let us now look at some of the traits that you should focus on building as a certified court reporter.

Professionalism and Focus

In order to succeed as a court reporter, you should be able to perform your role professionally. This entails executing your tasks well, paying attention to your dressing and grooming as well as reporting for duty early enough. Furthermore, you need to have a high level of focus so that you are able to record and write down the correct information during proceedings. Being focused will help you minimize errors in your work and ensure you execute your tasks at the highest standards.

Reserved Judgment

As a certified court reporter, your role is to record what is said during legal proceedings as objectively and accurately as possible. In this capacity, there is no room for letting your personal feelings and biases cloud your judgment. You should, therefore, aspire to transcribe the events as they are reported without getting emotionally invested in the case.

Punctuality

Although we have mentioned this at the outset, I feel that this trait cannot be emphasized enough. A key part of being a professional court reporter involves observing punctuality at all times. This entails waking up early to prepare yourself and organize the tools and equipment that you will need for the day. As a rule of thumb, you should always make an allowance of at least 30 minutes when preparing for work to compensate for any time that may be wasted on commutes and other unexpected delays. This will ensure that you are always early and ready for work.

Confidentiality

The role of a court reporter often makes one privy to sensitive information about legal cases. In light of this, the code of conduct requires that an individual working in this position maintains a high level of confidentiality. You should always refrain from discussing court cases with outsiders or sharing crucial details about legal proceedings with people who are not involved in the case.

Composure

In their line of duty, court reporters often find themselves having to sit through disturbing cases with very graphic details and testimonies. Without enough mental fortitude and emotional strength, it can be easy to breakdown during a legal proceeding or lose your cool. Nevertheless, the job of a court reporter requires very high level of neutrality and professionalism. For this reason, you should learn to be composed when dispensing your duty and avoid making personal judgments about cases. 

They must also be able to establish communication with witnesses, lawyers, and the judge to ensure that a transcription is accurate. Whether you currently work as a court reporter or want to, these tips could help you improve understanding and performance.

Be early instead of on time.

Early is always best. Make getting places twenty to thirty minutes early your new normal and you will usually be able to deal with anything that gets thrown your way. Make it an hour if you’re the type of person that likes to get there early and then enjoy their drink.

Do your best to interpret an interpreter.

Cases with two primary languages that are different (or utilization of sign language). When an interpreter is required, a reporter must clarify who is testifying– a witness or if an interpreter is speaking. Prepare for this as needed.

Get spelling of certain words determined ahead of time.

Specific words can be needed in order to confirm how first or last names or medical terminology are spelled. Use punctuation and more and get spelling down ahead of time if you know there are going to be certain terms used if possible.

Develop a good sense of communication and rapport.

Get a rapport going with attorneys. If you’re going to be working together, you need to have clear communication and that way both of you will know what’s happening. Be clear about expectations both ways and confirm confidentiality when needed. Some may want headers on pages indicating confidentiality levels on the document.

Keep up with recording demands.

A reporter’s duties on the job are to keep up and make sure that the record and resulting transcript are accurate. Speaking up as needed to clarify words and more is key! Be sure you get a good night’s sleep and are ready to take on the day by eating breakfast and leaving early so you stay focused.

Do your best to stay current.

Commit to developing your reporting skills and staying sharp. Staying current with your industry and profession may be a good idea as well. You may want to familiarize yourself with timers if you need to track time, and be sure that your computer or steno components are good and do not require repair.

Be professional and courteous.

This one explains itself but will get you far in any career, job, or field. Always be professional and courteous with no exceptions!

Dress for work.

Length is best and never do shorts! Skirts should be at least to the knee and ideally longer. A simple pants and formal shirt combination whether male or female should be suitable. Simple colors and no loud colors or patterns is important too. Go with formal over casual, length over shortness, and clothing that you purchased within the last two years so that it is not overly dated.

Thanks for reading our tips for court reporting. Follow these tips to do your best on the job!