Unveiling the Crucial Role of Court Reporters: An Insight into their Profession and Earnings
Court reporters, also referred to as 'courtroom typers' or 'court typists', carry a crucial responsibility in the judicial system. They produce precise written transcripts of legal proceedings, ensuring an accurate and comprehensive record of courtroom sessions, depositions, and more. But, what does a court reporter do exactly, and how much do court reporters make? Let's explore.
The Journey to Becoming a Court Reporter
Becoming a court reporter or a 'courtroom transcriber' requires a specific training path. Below, we trace the steps of an aspiring court reporter.
Step 1: Prepare for the Program
What distinguishes court reporters from other professions is the preparation required before enrolling in a program.
Develop Your Transcription Skills
Aspiring court reporters must hone their transcription skills and demonstrate an impeccable understanding of the English language. This is crucial for passing the entrance exams to stenography programs.
Arrange the Required Material
Institutions expect enrolled students to purchase their own tools, such as a court stenographer keyboard or a court recorder keyboard. Computerized writers, a form of 'courtroom typer,' are also essential for CAT classes. Though it may seem pricey, with computerized writers ranging up to USD 2000, cost-effective options like used items or renting are available.
Step 2: Enroll in a Program
There are plenty of flexible court reporting programs, even those offering online academics with on-site speed classes. While the programs' structures may differ, their end goal is similar: to equip individuals with the necessary skills as prescribed by the National Court Reporters Association, such as achieving transcription speeds of 180-225 words per minute, depending on the context.
Step 3: Complete the Program
Upon completing the program, you'll earn an associate's degree, a certificate, or a professional degree. The program's primary focus areas are English grammar, medical and legal terminology, research, necessary technology, and transcription procedures.
Step 4: Obtain a License
A state license is mandatory to operate as a court reporter. Licensing requirements vary across states, so it's essential to understand what your state demands. In some cases, you might need to undertake a Certified Verbatim Reporter's (CVR) examination through Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) or the National Verbatim Reporters Association.
Step 5: Land a Job
With a degree in hand, you can explore job opportunities as a court reporter in courts, or as Broadcast Captioners and Communications Access Realtime Reporters. You can choose between freelance work and full-time official court reporter roles. Common employers include state governments, court reporting agencies, and local governments.
Step 6: Obtain Additional Certification
Additional certifications can boost your CV and make you a favorite with employers. The United States Court reporters Association (USCRA) and the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) offer various certifications.
A Comprehensive Solution: Cogent Legal Services
At Cogent Legal Services, our court reporters, including remote court reporters, are highly skilled, holding state and/or national certifications. Our litigation support services extend throughout Florida and across the US, offering prompt assistance. Whether you need a court reporter in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, or Miami, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today to book your next court reporter.
