Finding a court reporter shouldn’t be just another thing to cross off your checklist, it should be handled with diligence as this person can impact your case in terms of accuracy and reliability. Understanding how court reporters may influence your proceeding helps you to know what you should be looking for when searching for a court reporter and what questions to ask before you schedule.
The difference between a machine and a person:
Many think they can get an accurate transcript simply by using a recording device. It is the “real deal” after all, right? However, poor audio is just one of the risks you take when it comes to using a recording device in place of a court reporter. Relying on a recording alone can also be time consuming and expensive as it must still be transcribed by an unbiased professional (see Audio/Video Transcription services). When a court reporter is present, they have the ability to get the most accurate recording by requesting all parties refrain from talking out of turn and the opportunity to minimize outside noises. A written transcript will allow you to go back and pinpoint key phrases as well.
Using the latest technology:
Technology is growing fast in the legal community. For instance, a service like realtime transcription allows you to read transcripts on a live feed right to your computer. There are also technological advances like CART captioning, which benefits the hearing impaired. Hiring a court reporter that knows the details of the latest technology can result in both efficiency and accuracy.
Where to look for the right court reporter:
The right court reporter can be hard to find! By utilizing eCourt Reporters‘ award-winning online booking system, you can find hundreds of freelance court reporters across the country. You will see upfront pricing, certifications, a 5-star rating by peers, and availability, which is a first in the industry.
Learn more about the benefits of signing up with eCourt Reporters here. Registration is free! No subscription fees!
