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Court Reporter
Court reporters prepare precise transcripts during court trials, business meetings, and other occasions when precise note taking is required. Court reporters are very important for the legal process. As a result, they must take precise notes since defendants’ appeals can be affected by these records. Court reporters frequently maintain and review records for specific details. Court reporters also work for companies that facilitate closed captioning and translation services for the deaf.
To take notes, court reporters primarily rely on stenotyping and voice writing.
Court reporters can press multiple keys at once on stenotype machines. When multiple keys are pressed at once, phrases and complete words are formed which is known as computer-aided transcription. While providing closed captioning services, court reporters connect these devices to computers. After keys are pressed, words instantly show up on the television screen in a method called Communications Access Real-time Translation (CART). This process is utilized in courtrooms, TV studios, and schools.
Voice writing is another technique utilized by court reporters. When voice writing, court reporters talk into a stenomask, a portable hand held device with a microphone attached to it. When a person is speaking, reporters repeat exactly what was spoken into the stenomask. The device is equipped with a silencer, so the reporter will not distract the trial or meeting. Every spoken word is documented, including emotional and nonverbal responses.
Most court reporters work in courtrooms while some record testimony for attorneys. Court reporters also work at business meetings and other gatherings.
How do you prepare for this career?
It usually takes about 3 years to complete stenotypist training. Voice writers usually need less than a year of training before beginning their careers. Nearly 130 colleges and trade schools offer these training programs. Nearly 70 schools offering these programs are endorsed by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). Programs with this endorsement require enrolled individuals to type 225 words every minute.
Certain states mandate reporters to become certified by passing a test. Certification levels are determined by the NCRA. Those acquiring advanced certifications usually must graduate from college, get some experience, and receive industry specific training.
Court reporters need to be great listeners, quick and accurate note takers, and good writers. Voice writers must have the ability to listen and talk simultaneously. Those working at courthouses must understand legal procedures. It is helpful if stenocaptioners understand how to use computers.
How much will I earn?
Court reporters with salaries in the 50th percentile made between $33,160-61,530 annually during 2008. Reporters in the lower 10th percentile made $23,430 or less while those in the upper 10th percentile made $77,770 or more annually.
Court reporters occasionally obtain freelance jobs to supplement their salaries. Pay for CART providers is usually calculated hourly while stenocaptioners employed by companies receive salaries.
How many jobs are there?
During 2008, nearly 19,000 court reporters were employed throughout the United States. 50 percent or more were employed by government agencies, especially state legislators and courthouses. The remainder were usually employed by private companies. Nearly 10 percent of reporters ran their own businesses.
What is the future outlook for this career?
Job growth for the court reporter career field is projected to increase at a greater rate than growth in other industries up until 2016. Job opportunities, particularly for stenographic types, should remain abundant since there are more jobs than applicants. Services for courtrooms, television stations, and deaf people will also continue to increase. Since demand for stenographic typists exceeds the supply, there will be many opportunities for voice writers. However, many courts still prefer stenotypists.
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