Starting a Court Reporting Career in 6 Steps (Plus Pay)
If you have good typing skills and a passion for court proceedings, a career as a court reporter might be the perfect fit for you. Court reporters play a crucial role in recording legal procedures for clerks, lawyers, and other professionals. By creating verbatim transcripts using specialised equipment and techniques, court reporters ensure that accurate records are maintained for the legal system. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to becoming a court reporter and discuss 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 legal events. Using shorthand, machine shorthand, or voice writing, court reporters create official transcripts that document proceedings accurately. While most court reporters work for private law firms and government agencies, some may also be employed by trade associations and nonprofits. The duties of a court reporter can vary depending on the employer, but common tasks include:
- Attending legal hearings or events to record proceedings. - Reviewing transcripts for accuracy and clarity. - Capturing speakers' gestures and tone to accurately represent events. - Providing timely transcriptions to court officials, lawyers, and clerks. - Monitoring court calendars for transcription needs. - Taking down court notes or administering oaths.
How to Become a Court Reporter
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a court reporter, follow these steps to get started:
1. Choose Your Career: Decide that court reporting is the right career path for you and align your goals accordingly.
2. Enter a Court Reporter Program: Enroll in a court reporter program at a community college, technical school, or online institution. These programs provide training in shorthand, machine shorthand, or voice writing.
3. Get a Credential: Obtain certification from a recognised association such as the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) or the National Verbatim Reporters Association (NVRA).
4. Finish an Internship: Complete an internship or externship to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting.
5. Be Licensed by the State: After completing your education and training, apply for a state license to practice as a court reporter legally.
6. Look for Work: Begin your job search by browsing job listings online, networking with professionals in the field, and joining professional organisations like the NCRA or NCSC.
Court Reporter Pay
The average salary for a court reporter can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and type of employer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for court reporters was $60,130 in May 2020. The highest 10% earned more than $112,540, while the lowest 10% earned less than $31,510. Court reporters who work in the federal executive branch tend to earn the highest salaries, while those employed by local government agencies typically earn lower wages.
In addition to a competitive salary, court reporters may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some court reporters may also have the opportunity to work freelance or take on additional assignments to supplement their income.
In conclusion, a career as a court reporter offers a unique opportunity to work in a fast-paced and dynamic legal environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide and obtaining the necessary credentials, you can start a rewarding career as a court reporter. With a competitive salary and potential for professional growth, court reporting is an exciting field to consider for those with excellent typing skills and a passion for the legal system.