Court reporting is a critical function in the legal system, serving as the official record of proceedings in courtrooms, depositions, and other legal proceedings. Though it may appear to be a straightforward task, a considerable degree of complexity in court reporting requires a detailed understanding. This blog post will guide you through the process, shedding light on this often-underestimated profession.

The Role of Court Reporters in the Judicial System

Court reporters, also known as stenographers, are responsible for creating a verbatim written record of legal proceedings. This includes trials, depositions, arbitrations, and other legal meetings. Their transcriptions serve as official and legal records, ensuring accuracy and fairness. The role of a court reporter is pivotal and requires a high level of skill and training.

Court reporters use specialized equipment, most commonly a stenotype machine, to record what is said during these proceedings. The machine allows them to press multiple keys simultaneously, recording symbols representing phrases, words, or sounds. These symbols are then translated into readable text through computer-aided transcription (CAT) software.

The Training Process of Court Reporters

Becoming a court reporter is not an overnight process. It involves rigorous training, certification, and a commitment to continuous learning. Here’s a glimpse of the training process:

1. Education: Most court reporters start their journey with postsecondary non-degree award programs in court reporting. Many community colleges and technical institutes offer these programs. Courses typically cover legal terminology, court reporting procedures, and transcription practice.
2. Certification: Aspiring court reporters may seek certification after completing an educational program. The National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) offers certification as a Registered Professional Reporter (RPR). This involves passing a written exam and a skills test. Certification often boosts credibility and job prospects.
3. On-the-job Training: Even after obtaining certification, new court reporters usually undergo a period of on-the-job training. They may first work in taking depositions or other non-judicial proceedings under the guidance of an experienced court reporter.

The Court Reporting Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the court reporting process can be complex. Let’s break it down into manageable steps:

1. Preparation: Before proceedings begin, court reporters set up their stenotype machines and check their audio recording devices. They may also meet with attorneys or other participants to clarify the names and terminology used.
2. Real-Time Transcription: As the proceedings commence, court reporters record all spoken words verbatim. They use their stenotype machine to record in shorthand, which allows them to keep up with the fast-paced dialogue.
3. Read-backs: During proceedings, court reporters may be asked to read portions of the testimony back. This is often done to clarify or confirm statements made.
4. Post-session Transcription: After the proceedings, court reporters translate their shorthand notes into a full, written transcript. They edit for grammar, punctuation, and clarity, ensuring the transcript accurately reflects the proceedings.
5. Delivery: The final transcript is then delivered to the court, attorneys, or whoever else has requested it. Depending on the urgency, this can range from a few hours to several weeks.

The Tools of the Trade: Stenotype Machines and CAT Software

The primary tool of a court reporter is the stenotype machine. A unique keyboard layout allows the reporter to press multiple keys at once to record symbols representing sounds, words, or phrases. This shorthand recording method enables court reporters to keep up with the rapid pace of verbal exchanges in legal proceedings.

After the proceedings, court reporters use Computer-Aided Transcription (CAT) software to translate the stenotype symbols into readable text. CAT software is customized to each reporter’s particular shorthand style and can be continually updated with new phrases and terminology.

The Importance of Accuracy in Court Reporting

Accuracy is paramount in court reporting. The transcripts created by court reporters serve as the official record of proceedings, which can be referred to in future court cases, appeals, and legal decisions. Even a minor inaccuracy can significantly affect the outcome of a case.

Accuracy in court reporting is not just about capturing every word. It also involves correct punctuation and understanding the context to ensure the transcript accurately reflects the tone and intent of the speaker.

The Evolution of Court Reporting and Real-Time Reporting

Court reporting has evolved significantly over the years, particularly with the advent of technology. One significant advancement is real-time reporting, where the stenotype machine is connected to a computer that translates shorthand into English instantly. This allows judges, attorneys, and other authorized individuals to read the proceedings as they happen.

Real-time reporting has revolutionized the court reporting industry. It enables immediate review and reference, assisting legal professionals in their case strategy. Furthermore, it aids individuals with hearing impairments by providing real-time closed captioning.

Concluding Thoughts

Court reporting is a critical component of our judicial system. This profession demands a high level of skill, accuracy, and dedication. While the process may seem intricate, understanding its different aspects can help us appreciate court reporters’ crucial role in preserving the integrity of legal proceedings.

As we conclude, we invite you to explore and learn more about the field of court reporting. Whether you are considering a career in court reporting or simply interested in the legal system, understanding the process of court reporting offers valuable insights.

For aspiring court reporters, we encourage you to take the next step in your journey. For attorneys and other legal professionals, we hope that this understanding fosters better collaboration with court reporters.

Are you in need of a professional court reporting firm in New Jersey? If so, contact us today!

As an attorney preparing for a trial, selecting the right court reporter can be critical to achieving your desired outcome. Having an experienced and proficient court reporter to accurately take notes, transcribe depositions and handle other legal documents is essential for success in your case. So what factors should you consider when choosing the best-fit court reporter for you? In this blog post, we will provide information on evaluating different court reporters concerning their skills, experience, and services so that you can make the best decision when selecting a provider for your case.

Understand the Different Types of Court Reporters and Their Pros and Cons

In the legal field, court reporters are crucial in documenting legal proceedings. However, not all court reporters are created equal – there are different types of court reporters, each with advantages and disadvantages. Stenographic court reporters, for instance, are known for their speed and accuracy, but their specialized equipment can be expensive to maintain. On the other hand, voice writers may not require pricey equipment, but they can only report at a slower pace and may have difficulty capturing multiple speakers. Another option is electronic court reporters who use sound-activated devices to record proceedings, but this method can have accuracy issues. As you can see, it is crucial to understand the differences among court reporters to determine which type will best suit your legal needs.

Assess the Qualifications of Potential Candidates

In the legal field, court reporters are critical in ensuring that official court proceedings are accurately recorded and transcribed. Therefore, when selecting a court reporter, it’s essential to consider the individual’s qualifications and experience. A qualified court reporter should have a strong command of language, excellent typing and grammar skills, and the ability to stay alert and focused in the courtroom. Additionally, they should know legal terminology and procedures to ensure they can accurately transcribe the information discussed. In selecting the right court reporter for your case, it’s essential to research their education, certifications, and experience in the field to make an informed decision. With the right qualifications, court reporters can help ensure justice is served by maintaining an accurate and impartial record of legal proceedings.

Check References and Read Reviews

When finding the right court reporter for your legal proceedings, it’s crucial to do your research. Checking references and reading reviews can help you gain valuable insight into past experiences others have had with a particular court reporter. This information can be pivotal in determining whether or not a court reporter is the right fit for your needs. References from trusted sources can give you a more detailed look at a court reporter’s qualifications, work ethic, and professionalism. Reading reviews from previous clients can indicate a court reporter’s punctuality, accuracy, and overall performance. Ultimately, investing time in researching and checking references is one of the best ways to ensure a successful and efficient legal proceeding.

Consider Specialized Skills or Industry Knowledge

As a vital member of the legal system, a court reporter is expected to possess specialized skills and industry knowledge that set them apart from other professionals. Their thoughtful attention to detail lets them capture every word spoken during judicial proceedings. Their sharp listening skills and ability to work under pressure allow them to transcribe complex dialogues and testimony in real-time accurately. Additionally, they must be familiar with different types of court proceedings, such as depositions, arbitrations, and trials. The courtroom is one of the most significant sanctums of justice, and court reporters play a crucial role in ensuring it runs smoothly. With their skills and knowledge, they contribute significantly towards protecting the integrity of our legal system.

Evaluate Rates and Payment Terms

When selecting a court reporter, evaluating rates and payment terms is vital to ensure you get the most value. While cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, it’s critical. Different court reporters may offer varying rates and payment arrangements, so it’s essential to do your research before committing to a particular service. Consider factors such as experience, certifications, reputation, rates, and payment terms to make an informed decision. By doing your due diligence and weighing your options carefully, you can find a court reporter that meets your needs and provides the high-quality work you deserve.

Go with Your Gut – Interview Potential Candidates to Ensure a Good Fit for Your Case

When finding the right court reporter for your case, it’s important to trust your instincts. While a candidate may look good on paper, interviewing them is essential to ensure they have the necessary skills and personality to match your needs. A good fit can make all the difference in the success of your case, so feel free to ask tough questions and get a feel for their work style. Whether you’re looking for someone who is detail-oriented, a speedy typist or has experience in a particular area of law, taking the time to interview potential candidates can help ensure that your case is in capable hands. So go ahead and trust your gut – it may lead you to the perfect court reporter for your needs.

Conclusion

Finding the right court reporter for your case may feel daunting, but following the guidelines discussed in this blog article will give you greater peace of mind when deciding. Remember that understanding the different types of court reporters and their pros and cons; assessing the qualifications of potential candidates; checking references and reading reviews; considering specialized skills or industry knowledge; evaluating rates and payment terms; and going with your gut – interviewing potential candidates to ensure a good fit – are all essential elements to keep in mind when looking for the right court reporter. With significant preparation, a bit of research, and an understanding of what qualities the reporting professional should possess, you can decide who is best suited to serve as your legal ally. Are you in need of a certified court reporter for your next case? Don’t hesitate to reach out – experienced professionals are waiting to help you succeed!

Crucial evidence is gathered and presented during a legal investigation to secure a conviction or reach a settlement. One key element in this process is the work of court reporters. The information they capture shapes the direction of litigation and can be used as robust evidence in trials. Understanding their role is essential for attorneys and litigators attempting to build successful cases. In this blog post, we’ll explore how court reporters help facilitate legal investigations by outlining their roles during proceedings, discussing why accuracy matters when recording testimony and evidence, and explaining what courtroom protocols ensure every detail gets recorded properly. This article will discuss court reporting services and other components of an effective legal team!

What is a Court Reporter, and What Do They Do During Legal Investigations

A court reporter is a skilled professional who plays an indispensable role in legal investigations, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the proceedings. During these investigations, their primary responsibility involves the creation of a precise and verbatim transcript of every word spoken by the parties present, including judges, attorneys, witnesses, and litigants. This meticulous documentation is an official record that safeguards individuals’ rights and is an essential reference for appeals or future examinations. Court reporters are also proficient in specialized shorthand techniques or stenography, which enables them to keep up with the often rapid rate of speech in a courtroom. In the complex realm of legal investigations, the court reporter’s attention to detail and dedication to accuracy contribute to the fair and just functioning of the justice system.

How Court Reporters Ensure Accuracy of Proceedings

Court reporters play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy of legal proceedings and upholding the judicial system’s integrity. These skilled professionals are expertly trained in capturing every spoken word, gesture, and nuance in the courtroom using specialized transcription equipment and software. Through their diligence and attention to detail, writers create verbatim transcripts of testimonies, arguments, and rulings, which serve as indispensable references for judges, attorneys, and parties involved in the case. Moreover, court reporters understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality and abiding by ethical standards, reinforcing the trust the public and legal community place in them. Additionally, they must continually hone their skills through professional development and certification programs to remain proficient and adapt to the ever-evolving legal technology and practices landscape. In conclusion, the expertise and commitment of court reporters are invaluable in safeguarding the precision and reliability of the judicial record, ultimately contributing to the effective administration of justice.

The Importance of Capturing All Evidence Accurately

The integrity of any investigation significantly relies on the thorough and accurate documentation of all pertinent evidence. As a professional, it is crucial to understand that capturing every detail accurately not only strengthens the foundation of the case but also aids in drawing appropriate conclusions and making informed decisions. Conversely, failing to do so can lead to misinterpretation of facts, wrongful judgment, and even the collapse of entire cases. As a result, unwavering diligence in gathering and preserving evidence is paramount, as it ultimately contributes to delivering justice and upholding the rule of law. Moreover, the value of clear evidence transcends the courtroom; it can also influence the development of policies and practices to enhance public safety and foster overall societal well-being.

The Role of Court Reporters in Providing an Impartial Record of the Proceedings

Court reporters play an invaluable role in ensuring the integrity and accuracy of legal proceedings by providing an impartial record of the events that transpire during a trial or deposition. These highly skilled professionals meticulously transcribe every word spoken in the courtroom, using their expertise in shorthand and advanced technology to capture complex testimony and intricate legal arguments. Not only do court reporters create an official record that can be referenced by attorneys, judges, and other stakeholders, but they also contribute to the transparency and overall fairness of the judicial system. Moreover, since their service transcends potential biases or partisanship, court reporters uphold a crucial ethical responsibility in our society’s justice pursuit.

Tips For Finding an Experienced and Reliable Court Reporter

In the legal field, accuracy and reliability are vital when searching for an experienced and competent court reporter. To ensure you make the right choice, start by consulting with fellow legal professionals, asking for recommendations, or conducting thorough online research. In addition, evaluating a candidate’s experience, expertise, and certifications is crucial in the selection process. For instance, a court reporter’s membership in professional associations, such as the National Court Reporters Association, reflects their dedication to upholding the best practices within their field. Furthermore, assessing their availability, ability to meet deadlines, and openness to embracing technology, such as real-time reporting and video conferencing, will reveal whether they can seamlessly adapt to your needs. Finally, always remember investing time and effort in finding the right court reporter will translate to a seamless experience and unmatched accuracy during crucial legal proceedings.

Challenges Associated With Being a Court Reporter and How to Overcome Them

As a court reporter, one faces many challenges, ranging from physical to mental stressors, that can potentially hinder performance and productivity. One such challenge is the sheer speed at which information is disseminated in the courtroom. This necessitates the development of exceptional typing or shorthand skills to transcribe testimonies and discussions accurately. Regular practice and the utilization of modern stenography technologies can aid in overcoming this hurdle. Another challenge is remaining impartial and maintaining strict confidentiality, which requires a strong sense of ethics and integrity. Attending professional development seminars or workshops focusing on ethical guidelines and building a supportive network of fellow court reporters can assist in upholding these principles. Additionally, coping with the emotional weight of some instances can be draining, making it essential for court reporters to establish healthy coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from colleagues, friends, or mental health professionals and practicing healthy self-care habits. In summary, overcoming these professional obstacles necessitates dedication, adaptability, and a robust support system.

All in all, court reporters play an invaluable role during legal proceedings. They must produce a complete and accurate transcript of the proceedings, remain impartial, and take good notes to benefit both parties involved. Being a court reporter can be challenging at times due to intense focus, deadline pressures, and extreme volumes of work. However, with experience and hard work, it can be gratifying. Finding an experienced and reliable court reporting firm is critical to successful legal investigations. When looking for a professional court reporting firm, we recommend doing research and considering several factors such as certification, speed accuracy rate and offers 24/7 support. Ultimately, these essential components should guide your decision-making when selecting a firm to handle your case. If you’re looking for professional court reporting services that you can count on quality results – contact us today!

Are you in the market for a court reporting agency to work with on a case or looking to become a court reporter yourself? Well, we have good news for you!

Court reporting is a rewarding career that has been steadily growing in demand and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. As a result, people are increasingly gravitating towards it as a profession of choice. 

Generally, court reporters are responsible for transcribing what happens and what is said during court proceedings. This ensures an accurate record of events that transpire during court trials. That said, court reporting agencies typically employ most court reporters. These organizations are staffed by qualified, competent, and experienced court reporters who provide services for different clients. 

So, if you are thinking of hiring a court reporting agency, here are some steps you can take to ensure you get the right one.

Read Reviews Online

When vetting a court reporting agency, you want to ascertain that it has a good reputation and can deliver what you desire. For this reason, paying attention to the reviews and testimonials that other clients provide about the agency is critical. If the agency has predominantly positive reviews, this is indicative of its good reputation and reliability. 

Assess Their Service 

You can deduce a lot of information about a court reporting agency purely from gauging the quality of their service. For instance, how good is their customer service? Do they respond to queries in a timely and satisfactory manner? The only way to find out is by checking their website and contacting them. 

Research The Agency

Before hiring a court reporting agency, you need to do your due diligence to find the perfect fit. As such, make sure you research different agencies and identify what you like or dislike about each. Make a shortlist of candidates you prefer and cross off the ones that don’t meet your expectations. 

Find Out Whether They Travel

Hiring a court reporter that travels can be very convenient and ultimately more affordable than one that doesn’t. So, before choosing a court reporting agency to work with, be sure to inquire whether they travel or not. You may also want to find out what equipment they provide and the fees they charge. 

Check For Certification

Court reporters require certification to dispense their mandate. So if you are looking to hire an agency, check for this. 

Competence

When hiring a court reporting agency, you want to ensure they can produce accurate transcripts promptly. After all, this is the reason why you want to hire them in the first place. 

By following these guidelines, you will likely find an excellent court reporting agency that can deliver the results you are looking for. Get in touch with us if you need assistance.

Court reporters are – in many people’s eyes – only good for their typing speed. However, the truth is that most reporters possess a skill set that ordinary people would consider too complex. 

It takes more than many fast fingers to listen and accurately note down ongoing conversations in real-time.

If you’ve ever wanted to venture into court reporting, here are some of the skills you must possess to succeed:

Long Attention Span

Ever been in a meeting where you were constantly zoning in and out of the room? Well, you can’t do that as a court reporter. This is because you will be required to produce scripts with near-100 percent accuracy, which means you need to capture every word spoken. Losing concentration even for a split second can cause inconsistencies in your transcript, which may even cost you the job.

Ability to Handle Stress

Again, court reporting is more than just a “typing” job. Reporters are constantly under pressure, both from clients and the job itself. 

The stress is not just mental but also physical, with back problems, headaches, finger pains, and repetitive motion disorders being very common among court reporters.  

One needs to be adept at handling the stress and maintaining the right work-life balance, which includes getting adequate sleep and exercising.

A Pair of Good Hands

Court reporters earn their livelihoods from their hands, or rather fingers, just like models do from their bodies. Therefore, they need to ensure that their hands are healthy and in working condition at all times. Otherwise, they wouldn’t give any value to their employers and would find themselves out of jobs.

Some court reporters try to minimize the number of physical activities they partake in. For instance, they may avoid risky tasks like basketball games, home repair, and even weightlifting. The overly cautious ones even stay away from all forms of manual labor. 

The downside to the business is that, unlike most professions, one can quickly lose their job if they get chronic conditions like arthritis. This is because court reporters are typically judged on how many transcripts they can churn out in a given time, and health complications can significantly reduce one’s speed.

All said, becoming a certified court reporter is not a walk in the park. The competition is exceptionally stiff, both from other reporters and digital machines, and one needs to be good to have a shot. And those that make it deserve all the respect.

The world is seemingly full of technology these days. Court reporting has traditionally been a position filled by humans and still is. Each and every single court hearing has a huge need for a reliable transcript of events, actions, and statements so that they have an accurate record of just what went on. Without it, they simply not function in the same way.

While it may seem that tech is popping up in many facets of life, the fact of the matter is that it isn’t likely to replacing these reporters anytime soon. Courts need people to be doing this job simply because of the fact that they are so reliable.

They don’t mess up and make errors and they certainly aren’t going to have a breakdown because something is ‘glitching’ and causing them not to function– unless they forgot to eat breakfast, which a reliable reporter always does.

Trials and hearings have a need for not only accurate records, but someone that is going to be able to speak up and signal when they need something repeated or were not able to discern a word that was said. Technology is currently not so integrated with impeccable AI that it can accomplish that– and if it can, it does not come anywhere close to rivaling the abilities of a human.

Reporters are simply a necessary part when it comes to any court proceedings because there needs to be the official recording. This then is turned into legal evidence, which can have a huge effect on how the case turns out. Without it, things simply cannot move forward.

Are you considering getting into this field? It could be a great career for you if you are willing to work hard as well as get certified. While many others are wondering whether tech will eliminate the need for human workers in some fields, the good news is that reporting will continue to need people to do this job simply because an accurate transcription and record is so important.

Tech is certainly something to worry about in a variety of job fields, but certainly not this one anytime soon. While the advancement of technology has certainly been able to help reporters in what they are able to get done, there is no question that they are not a rival for doing the job itself.

Reporters, also known as stenographers, put a lot of effort into learning their skills and continually striving for excellence in their field of choice. With discipline and pursuing your training, you can become a stenographer too!

It’s a great career path and one that is not at risk of being threatened by total tech replacement! They’re an integral part of the courts and more. If you’re interested in this field, do your research and find out more about what it involves and maybe find a training program or school near you.

You may know that it’s time to hire a realtime reporter when certain things are happening. Generally if there isn’t one in the room you should, but we’re getting a little more specific about that today. When it comes to the technology reporting or real reporters, which is more effective?

Overall, the human element tends to be more effective. Real people have the benefit of being able to spot errors and point out mistakes or let someone know if they’re about to ‘have an error’, (about to be sick or something), which a machine usually doesn’t do.

If software or a machine isn’t working, you usually find that out when it breaks or when you review the transcription or recording and it isn’t there. That doesn’t happen all of the time, but the risk is always there. The benefit of this tech is that when it works well, the translation happens instantly and quickly. The software can convert sounds or shorthand into text that is readable.

Another benefit to the tech is that you can view the text wherever you want to– tablet or computer, screen, it doesn’t make a difference. The benefit of a live person is that they can clarify, however, if something is too soft to be recorded or they’re unlikely to put a word out of context because they misheard it, which a machine definitely could do.

A human stenographer is more likely to put down every word exactly as heard and as it was said. If they can’t hear or did not understand, they may ask for clarification. Depositions and court rooms depend on accuracy. While tech is improving, each court or deposition room has to consider the benefits of using real time court reporting tech or individual (human) reporters for themselves.

Tech may also provide the option of remote video and streaming depending on the software which may make it easier for depositions. It may also allow easy access to case information instead of the slow approach. They can even be synced up to official transcripts from courts, allowing fast and easy navigation and reviewing of evidence, and may even allow for simple emailing for review to teams.

Whether you go with tech or human reporters, either way, the job is getting done. It all depends on what you’re looking for. Software can allow for quicker and easier access and sending for review and potentially save costs if it’s efficient (and doesn’t break). There are benefits to each; check them out and see which is right for you.

Court reporting may be enhanced or even complemented by technology, but can it replace a real court reporter?

Court reporting is when a person or some type of technology records what is happening in a legal setting, usually a deposition or a court room hearing. While tech has come about in the last few decades that can mimic the job of a reporter, can it really provide services that match the need for accurate transcriptions?

It may seem that automated tech is more a part of our lives now than ever. We see it as the grocery store, or hear an automated voice thanking us as we leave the bank for using their ATM services. But does voice recording technology and more have the potential to replace human reporters? The answer is most likely no.

Here is why…

Human confidentiality.

You can’t hack a human, although a reporter could mess up and confide in others the details of cases that they are working. However, the far and away majority of reporters that work in court have a good understanding of what is required of them and that includes the oath they have taken to keep all of the information that they type or hear confidential.

When it comes to tech that records voices, there is always an additional risk that the transcript contents may be brought to light. With more people handling this transcript than with just a reporter, it adds more risk to the privacy of each case. Storage digitally may also be an issue.

People don’t have glitches.

One of the benefits of using people for court reporting and not machines is that they don’t get glitches. Machines and tech can backfire and break, but a human being is unlikely to do so unless they get a cold, and even then they can call out sick. Also, any machine that breaks will cost money to fix and may slow down everything.

They can comprehend the situation and ask for clarity when needed.

People are able to comprehend what’s going on, tell who is speaking, and ask for clarification on something if they need to. This ability to work within the present moment and prevent error before it happens is something you’d be hard-pressed to find with current tech. They also prepare for a deposition and will have terms such as medical terms down pat before the process even begins.

Transcript availability.

They’ll be able to provide an immediate availability when it comes to the transcript, no matter what format is required.

Does court reporting require people to do it? For the time being, YES! Human reporters are not going to be replaced any time soon. They are too useful and skilled  at working in their field to imagine otherwise.

Are you a court reporter or looking to potentially become a certified court reporter?

The judicial system has relied on the services of court reporters for years. A court reporter’s job is to take down what is happening in court and type out and take down all of the actions and statements and eventsof the court case.

For a while, some reporters worried that they may get supplemented or even replaced by tape-recording technology. Even though the judicial system did go wild for the idea of taped recordings for some time, that affair is quickly fading.

The judicial system requires for transcription a high level of accuracy that is uncompromising and can only be provided by a flesh and blood recorder– and all thanks to a number of factors.

The judicial system vastly benefits from a reporter’s skill set that yields transcripts that have a high level of accuracy that reporters can deliver. That’s something that machines or technology can’t always do.

Today we’re talking about taped recordings and why essentially they will never be in competition with human court reporters when it comes to being in demand.

Can a Taped Recording Really Rival What a Court Reporter Does?

Do you remember when taped recordings first came on the scene? When they first rolled out this technology, it generated a bit of excitement– mostly at the ability to potentially help record court events efficiently.

It was a nice dream, but dreams are not always competition for reality. Taped recordings in the end were found to be incomparable to a real reporter present in the court room. So why was that?

Court reporters were found to be more accurate, faster, and make less errors than taped recordings. They were also more cost effective and easier on the budget. They also were not prone to ‘break down’ or need repairs– no technical problems with a real person on the job!

Important cases also relied on reporters over tapes, and would demand human court reporters if they needed to get daily transcripts. To this day, court reporters provide translation of what is happening in real time– and can ask parties to speak up or clarify or even repeat a point in order to get it down (something a machine as of yet is not able to do, reducing accuracy as well as reliability).

Recordings actually take a long time to process, but with court reporting done in real time, you can have a transcript pretty quickly. It’s beneficial to both courts and attorneys as well as reporters– courts get less errors, reporters get jobs, and attorneys can search through an immediately-available transcript of the day’s events.

Recordings also posed a problem in that they were transcribed, but by typists who had not been present. So they could only transcribe what it was that they thought they heard, as they were not there and cannot draw from their memory. As a result, accuracy levels were impacted.

To this day, certified court reporters are preferred and an integral part of the judicial system, which could not and to this day has not been able to function reliably without them.