How to Choose the Right Court Reporter for a Criminal Case

You may think all court reporters the same. That’s if you even think about court reporters at all. Many people don’t even consider the role a court reporter plays in a criminal case. Yet, all court reporter services are not the same. If you research different court reporting agencies, it quickly becomes apparent that there are quite a few to choose from. 

Court reporting agencies have similar, yet varying, services, A wide range of methods can be used to document the information presented in court. Plus, different certification opportunities exist that may make a specific court reporter a better choice for your particular area of law. 

Furthermore, when it comes to criminal law, it is of vital importance that the testimony and anything else that occurs in the courtroom is documented accurately, precisely, and with discretion. In a criminal case, or any other case for that matter, knowledgeable court reporting professionals with extensive courtroom experience are critical.

What are Court Reporters?

Court reporters are professionals in the legal are who have:

  • Extensive knowledge of criminal court proceedings.
  • Professionalism and the ability to show discretion, despite the subject matter of the content they are recording. Court reporters must not only show discretion in the courtroom but in the greater community, as well. Confidentiality among court reporters should be held in the highest regard.
  • Training and experience. Court reporters must maintain the proper licensure and certifications. Many of these go above and beyond the state and federal requirements. You should choose a court reporter who keeps up with modern trends in court reporting methods, and the field of criminal law, as well.
  • Education in legal terminology. In a criminal case, you will likely want a court reporting professional with knowledge of legal language specifically related to criminal cases. Court reporters in criminal cases should hold a high standard of knowledge when it comes to documenting testimonies and other events in the courtroom. It is undeniably imperative for a court reporter to work quickly and efficiently. In many cases, there is no time for translation, to figure out what was just said, or to even pause to think about how to spell a word. When a court reporter is knowledgeable about the content they are reporting, the documentation can be fast, accurate, and precise.
  • Objectivity and neutrality. Court reporters must be able to override their emotions and opinions about the subject matter. Indeed, criminal law intends to keep society safe and to determine and then punish criminal wrongdoing. People may have strong views on criminal behavior. However, it is unethical for the court reporter to show bias in documenting the testimonies and attorneys’ presence in the courtroom. Maintaining neutrality is of utmost importance for a court reporter. 

Criminal law serves to keep society safe and harmonious. If a court does not provide a court reporter, hiring a court reporter may be a crucial part of making and arguing a case. Plus, written transcripts are essential to the appeals process. To make sure your case receives the court reporting attention it deserves, contact a court reporter for more information.