Court reporters play an essential role in the legal system by recording hearings and other legal procedures for clerks, lawyers, and other professionals. These individuals possess technical skills that allow them to create verbatim transcripts using specialised equipment and techniques. If you have good typing skills and a passion for court proceedings, a career as a court reporter may be a perfect fit for you. In this guide, we will outline the steps to becoming a court reporter and provide information on the typical compensation for this profession.
What Does a Court Reporter Do? Court reporters, also known as stenographers or shorthand reporters, are responsible for transcribing spoken or recorded speech during hearings, depositions, and other events. They create official transcripts using shorthand, machine shorthand, or voice writing techniques. While most court reporters work for private law firms and government agencies, some may also work for trade associations and nonprofits. The duties of a court reporter can vary depending on their employer, but typical responsibilities include attending legal hearings or other events to document proceedings, ensuring transcripts are clear and accurate, interpreting speakers' gestures or tone to accurately portray events, providing timely transcriptions to clerks, lawyers, and court officials, checking court calendars for transcription needs, taking court notes, and administering oaths.
Steps to Becoming a Court Reporter: 1. Choose Your Career Path: Depending on your state, becoming a court reporter may require an associate degree or certificate. There are various career paths within court reporting, such as judicial reporting, CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation), court reporting/stenography, and court reporting/voice writing. Research these options to determine which path aligns with your interests and goals.
2. Enter a Court Reporter Program: Many community colleges, trade schools, and court reporter schools offer court reporting programs. Research different programs to find one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and career goals. Programs typically require an entrance exam that tests typing and English skills. Consider online programs if they fit your needs.
3. Get a Credential: Earn a certificate or associate degree in court reporting to qualify for job opportunities. These programs typically last 18-24 months and cover topics such as grammar, punctuation, law terminology, shorthand, captioning, and word processing. Completing a court reporting program will prepare you for a career in this field.
4. Finish an Internship: Consider completing an internship to gain hands-on experience in the field. Interning with a court reporter can help you apply your skills in a real-world setting and learn more about the profession. Talk to your academic adviser or faculty member to find an internship that aligns with your interests.
5. Obtain State Licensure: Research the licensing requirements for court reporters in your state. While not all states require licensure, obtaining a license can set you apart from other job applicants. Licensure typically involves passing a written exam and skills examination. Consider becoming certified by a professional organization such as the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA).
6. Look for Employment: Once you have met the necessary qualifications, start searching for job opportunities. Job-search websites, professional networks, and professional organizations like the NCRA can help you find reporting positions. Attend industry events and networking opportunities to make connections and increase your chances of finding employment.
In conclusion, a career as a court reporter can be rewarding for individuals with strong typing skills and a passion for legal proceedings. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can embark on a fulfilling career as a court reporter. Stay informed about industry trends, continue to hone your skills, and seek out additional training opportunities to advance your career in this field. Good luck on your journey to becoming a court reporter!