Court Reporting: Learn More

Looking for an interesting career where you’ll hear stories every day? Consider a career in Court Reporting! Court Reporters continue to be in high demand. Even with the many technological advances, Court Reporters are still depended on for accurate legal documentation. Not only are Court Reporters needed by law firms and court systems, many hospitals, government agencies and businesses understand the importance of accurate and exact transcriptions.

The mission of a Court Reporter is simple: to provide an exact and accurate written transcription. In many cases, this transcription is used in the legal world to become a permanent part of the legal record. There are even opportunities in the entertainment world! Those with Court Reporting training are used by television stations and provide closed captioning for live broadcasts.

Court Reporters use a number of different tools to quickly and accurately transcribe records. Some use a stenotype machine – a specially designed piece of equipment that a court reporter uses to press multiple keys at once to record combinations of letters. Others make audio recordings, which they later transcribe to written versions.

Court Reporters usually need either a two- or four-year degree, or appropriate certification, and are responsible for ensuring that the legal record is complete, accurate and secure. Because of the importance of the work, Court Reporters need to have a high attention to detail and accuracy.

They must have excellent listening skills and a solid grasp of English grammar, vocabulary and punctuation. For those who work in courtrooms, expert knowledge of legal terminology and procedure is essential. In addition to lucrative salaries, Court Reporters often have flexibility in arranging their work hours and schedules.