Online Degree Programs in Court Reporting
Students that compete a program of study in court reporting are eligible for the demanding career of accurately and concisely recording all testimony and discussion in a court of law. There are two different types of court reporters, those that use voice recording and those that used a specialized recording device. Voice recording training usually takes less than one year of education, whereas a full stenotypist's training can take up to 33 months. Some programs may also offer two to four year Associates or Bachelors level degrees in court reporting. The key to any type of court reporting is absolute accuracy, whether it is by voice, electronic recording, or by traditional court transcription. Focus in placed in all training to provide as much real-world experience as possible. Since courtrooms can often be very emotionally charged environments this is a very important part of court reporter training.
Court reports may work either in or outside of the courtroom. Many court reports may also work to complete depositions, provide accurate transcripts of meetings and interactions between various agencies, as well as assist in providing accurate records of almost any other type of conversation or meeting as required. Court reporters will study legal terminology so that reporters are able to correctly follow the conversations in courtrooms or legal meetings. In addition to legal terminology courses will also include the basic criminal and appellate procedures used within the jurisdiction. Court reporters also need to be aware of basic court rules and procedures as well as ethical issues with regards to information and transcription.
Court reporters may find careers working in private practice under contract to municipal, state or federal courts. They can also work for attorneys or other professionals that require an accurate recording or transcripts of meetings and conversations. New programs also include the use of real-time transcription and computer-assisted transcription.