If you are looking for a job that is both interesting yet flexible, then consider court reporting. A court reporter?s job is to create a transcript of cases in the courtroom. At the moment, there are three types of court reporters, which include: stenographers who enter everything spoken in court into a stenotype machine, electronics reporters who use audio equipment to record the proceedings while taking notes and finally voice writers that are required to speak into a mask that includes a recorder and voice silencer. Court reporters that do their work through electronic means create a transcript after they have everything they need recorded. Any of these particular specialties is a great choice of career in court reporting.
Assess Your Skills
If you believe the field is for you, the first thing you should do is to assess your typing skills, ensure that you have excellent grammar, spelling and punctuation as well as excellent hearing. Super listening skills are also a requirement of court reporting. Being able to read fast is also important.
Take the Mandatory Training
A court reporter will also have to be fluent in using computers and a variety of software. Of course, there is also mandatory training in the field of stenography that one can take in college or vocational school. The best bet is to enroll in a program that is certified by the NCRA or National Court Reporters Association or the NVRA or National Verbatim Reporters Association. Many schools will also provide instruction on voice writing.
Learn the Basic Legal Terminology
At least a basic knowledge of legal terminology is required so that you can properly record what is being said during a case or trial. To that end, some experience working at a law firm might help.
Pass Necessary Tests
To become a court reporter, it is necessary to pass a state test and gain the CCR or Certified Court Reporter certification. You must pass a written test of questions involving legal and medical terminology, spelling and vocabulary, dictation and transcription and accuracy, speed and your ability to work quietly.
Become Notary Public
Depending on your state, you may also be required to become a notary public when you are looking to become a court reporter.
If you are considering a new career and are looking for something that is both flexible yet interesting, then becoming a court reporter may be a good option.
