Happiness is a mindset that’s available to all of us. It still helps to pursue a career where you feel valued and respected. What better option than becoming a digital court reporter? It’s a highly esteemed profession and as an officer of the court, you get insight into the workings of society. You’ll never stop learning and you’ll be in high demand.
A Career in Demand
With a high number of court reporters currently hitting retirement age, the industry needs new joiners. While court reporters go as far back as Ancient Greece, with the lawyer Cicero most likely one of the first hirers, today, it’s a leading profession.
A digital court reporter works with some of the best equipment and software to be more effective. Their primary responsibility is still to record court proceedings both accurately and speedily. This becomes easier now that they can leverage voice-to-text software.
For example, a digital court reporter takes shorthand notes on one side while recording the proceeding to have a backup version to refer to. Other reporters might use a stenomask connected to their laptops. They speak into this mask and the software translates their voice into a written document. The added advantage is that this is real-time so attorneys can watch on their screens and simultaneously add their notes to the side of the document.
An independent digital court reporter will work out the best technology for them and their clients’ needs. On the other hand, a reporting firm provides the relevant equipment and software. Either way, reporters get access to some of the best digital tools.
Salary is of course also a critical consideration. The average salary you can expect is $60,000 per year but this goes up to above $100,000 depending on your niche and which state you’re working in.
In fact, as you start planning your career, it’s worth thinking about how you can differentiate yourself. For instance, if you’re multilingual you could cover proceedings that involve non-nationals more easily. Moreover, you could have a passion for medical cases and become an expert in reporting proceedings with complex terminology.
Regardless of becoming a specialist or a generalist digital court reporter, you can further enjoy the following benefits:
- Flexibility
- Ongoing learning
- A supportive network
Flexibility
As a digital court reporter, you can cover remote proceedings. Moreover, you can qualify in more than one state which then gives you options and a wider client base. This is another great way to increase your overall yearly salary.
Let’s also not forget that digital proceedings can be attended from anywhere so why not even from your beach house?
Ongoing learning
The law is a fascinating and complex system that, if you enjoy technical detail, will keep you entertained for decades. Every proceeding is different and you’ll be exposed to a range of legal aspects across various subjects. For example, forensics, intellectual property, trade law and many more.
A supportive network
We spend the majority of our lives at work so we want to know we’re going to be interacting with friendly and supportive people. A quick search on Facebook will show you examples of court reporter groups where people help each with questions and general issues. You won’t be alone even if you decide to freelance as a digital court reporter.
Certifying as a Digital Court Reporter
Now that you’re planning to become a digital court reporter, what do you need to do to certify? Depending on your choices, it can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months.
1- Choose a program
If you already have a Bachelor’s degree, you can simply opt for a certification program. On the other hand, if you don’t have a degree, you can choose a court reporter associate degree program.
When choosing a program, you also want to consider costs and flexibility. Many now offer their courses online with full tutor support. In terms of cost, an in-depth associate degree program will charge you around $25,000 or above. Although, online courses and community colleges offer prices closer to the $5k to $10k / year range.
2- What to expect
Most courses ask you to buy your own stenograph machine at around $1500 which also makes logistics easier for you. You’ll have coursework to practice dictation and typing speed. Classes will also require you to learn legal, medical and other technical terminology.
Naturally, as a digital court reporter, you’ll be trained in listening, speaking, reading and writing with a full review of grammar, phonetics, spelling and punctuation.
3- Complete the exam
The final exam will test you on diction, writing and general knowledge of legal and technical terminology. Overall, you demonstrate you can pay attention to details along with excellent grammatical skills.
Typing skills are critical and you need to be 98% accurate with expected writing speeds of 180 words per minute (wpm) for literary, 200 wpm for jury charge and 225 for testimony. This standard is set and regulated by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA).
4- Qualify with an association
Every state has different licensing requirements. So, for example, Florida has a one-day certification seminar with an exam at the end for you to complete. It’s worth noting that Florida doesn’t enforce certification but certifying with the Florida Court Reporters Association does give you more credibility.
Another point to consider is certifying with the NCRA at the national level. Moreover, as a digital court reporter, you can work in any state as long as you meet their licensing requirements. This gives you further flexibility for your career with a wider range of opportunities.
Finally, you might also look at getting an internship as a way to ease into your new career. Many firms offer internships and most schools can help you get one. It’s a great way to network and learn quickly and effectively.
Maximizing A Career as a Digital Court Reporter
The learning doesn’t stop once you’re certified. As a digital court reporter, it’s a good idea to keep up to date with technology and legal developments. The NCRA and your local association are usually the best places to go for webinars and training.
Another advantage of attending webinars and courses is that you often get the chance to meet colleagues working in other areas and for different firms. You can compare notes, discuss common problems and become sounding boards for each other. For instance, what’s the best stenomask currently on the market?
Once you’re actually working as a digital court reporter, it’s all about practice, practice, practice. Some new reporters might even listen in on some public court proceedings just to get extra exposure.
Moreover, as a digital court reporter, you will often be working remotely. So, it’s important for you to find a dedicated place where you can work without being disturbed. Managing your time is also critical especially when you have several deadlines. Court reporters are expected to work quickly but you still need to manage your priorities.
As you become more expert you can also review whether other certifications could help you differentiate yourself. For example, the NCRA also offers certificates for real-time reporters as well as legal video specialists, diplomat reporters and many more.
Driving a successful career is about making a name for yourself. You need some hard work as well as knowing how to keep a healthy work-life balance. That way, you’ll stay fulfilled and motivated for the long run.
- Prioritize self-care
- Network
- Continuous development
Prioritize self-care
As a digital court reporter, you’ll need to sit for long periods of time to record proceedings. It’s critical you take care of yourself so that you can do this successfully. Plan your breaks and downtime around your client’s needs and remember to respect your boundaries between work and time off.
Network
The more people you know, the more you’ll stay abreast of industry changes and any potential opportunities. Moreover, as a digital court reporter, you’ll appreciate having people to talk to especially when you’re working remotely from home.
Continuous development
As mentioned, learning is a major part of a reporter’s work life. That’s how you develop and carve out a niche. It’s also how you keep yourself motivated because after all, if you stop learning in life then what else is left?
Launch Your New Life as a Digital Court Reporter Today
A digital court reporter will always be in demand. Not only does the industry need you but you can also expand your client base to cover more than one state if you wish. Of course, you have to meet the licensing requirements but once you do, you can work anywhere you want.
First, though, you have to complete the court reporter exam. It’s also a good idea to certify with an association to give you credibility. In general, you can expect to be certified within 1`8 to 24 months and most schools will also support you in finding your first internship and job.
Once you get started as a digital court reporter, keep learning and networking to become the best officer of the court that you can.
