A courtroom is a fascinating place in which to have a career. The legal process is one of the most necessary functions of our society. One way to be involved in this process without the extensive education necessary to be a lawyer or judge is in the field of court reporting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for court reporters are expected to increase at a rate of 7% from 2018 to 2028. This growing need for court reporters, according to the report, will be due to federal laws that require more captioning for the Internet and other new technologies. As of May of 2019, the median annual income of court reporters was $60,130 putting it well above the average U.S. salary.
Court reporters are a vital part of legal proceedings. They create an exact record of everything that is said in the courtroom in order to maintain consistency in testimony and to show discrepancies in the appeals process, if necessary. With the assistance of a stenotype machine, some court reporters can type more than 300 words a minute. Court reporting is flexible but fast-paced which makes it a highly interesting career choice!
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- Court Reporter: In-Depth Answers
- Rapid Fire Q and As
- Best Online Schools for Court Reporting
- Organizations To Join
- “Did You Know?” Court Reporter Facts
- Court Reporting YouTube videos
Recommended Schools
Court Reporter: In-Depth Answers
Click on the links below for a more comprehensive answer to your question!
What important qualities and skills do I need to be a good Court Reporter?
First and foremost, a Court Reporter must be accurate in their typewriting skills. Secondly, exceptional listening skills are a must! Success as a court reporter depends on being very detail-oriented and having good grammar skills. It is also necessary to be a fast typist.
Do I need a formal degree to be a Court Reporter?
Typically, learning to become a Court Reporter will take you about two years; either by earning an associate degree or completing a certificate program.
What sort of career and salary can I have within the field of Court Reporting?
Court reporting has a relatively high median salary, a flexible schedule, and does not require a four-year degree. As of May 2019, the BLS stated that Court Reports earn $60,130 per year; however, the highest 10% earned upwards of $106,210 annually.
What sort of licensure or certification do I need in Court Reporting?
You will need to check with the state’s mandates that you plan to work in to see if a license is required to be a Court Reporter. In some instances, national-level certifications are earned in lieu of a state license; although a state written exam may be required as well to practice.
What types of transcription methods do I need to know as a Court Reporter?
Court reporters use two formats to transcribe legal proceedings: stenography and voice writing. In associate degree programs, coursework usually focuses on stenography which is the process of writing in shorthand. This shorthand is executed through a stenotype machine that uses a keyboard to create words through key combinations rather than single characters.
Rapid Fire Q and As
What is the main focus of a good Court Reporter?
Court Reporters are a crucial part of the legal system. Without them, there would be no official reference of the witness’ testimony, the victim’s testimony, or the counsel’s remarks and questioning. Through the Court Reporter’s account, everyone has proof that the rights of all involved are protected during the court process; therefore, making our legal system reliable and trustworthy.
Who hires Court Reporters?
Court Reporters are often employed by a state or federal court system. In addition, Freelance Court Reporters work as independent contractors and can obtain a job wherever they please; either within several court systems, in legal offices taking dispositions or testimonies, within arbitrations, as well as important business meetings.
Is Court Reporting difficult?
Court reporting is not a difficult profession; however, certain skills must be mastered to become competent. You will need to be a good listener and proficient in your typewriting skills to record them expediently and accurately. In addition, you must practice extensively to sharpen your skills.
Is the role of the Court Reporter important?
Absolutely. As a Court Reporter records every word said in a legal court proceeding, rest assured, your work will be reviewed and relied upon as being accurate and dependable. A person’s livelihood could depend upon it! Your role as a Court Reporter is considered a critical and necessary position.
How much are stenographer machines and am I expected to supply my own while in training?
Stenographer machines cost between $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the model and quality you choose. Refurbished machines can be found for much less. Most schools will require you to purchase your own machine as a prerequisite to their program. You should consider the cost of your machine as part of your college tuition!
At what speed should a Court Reporter be trained to type?
Depending on the application, Court Reporters must be able to type between 180 and 225 words per minute. Of course, your words must be typed accurately using correct spelling and punctuation. Furthermore, if you are using a stenographer machine, proper training is required, for it requires special skills different from those used with the typical typewriter.
Is Court Reporting a stressful job?
Yes, it can be. Without a doubt, typing at a high rate of speed with complete accuracy would be stressful for anyone. But, there are other aspects to consider that contribute to the pressure a Court Reporter endures, such as the spur-of-the-moment work requested by legal authorities, long work hours including late nights and weekends, and the physical demands of sitting for long periods of time.
Are Court Reporters in high demand?
The field is expected to grow by 7% between 2018 and 2028. Although the job growth for Court Reporting is expected to rise, it is also a very competitive career to pursue. You must be on top of your game at all times!
What sort of equipment does a Court Reporter use?
Typically, depending on the application, Court Reporters are trained to use a stenotype or stenograph machine. The machine has 22 keys on it; each signifying a sound. This process is known as stenography, a form of shorthand.
Are there other names used for Court Reporters? And, what’s the difference, if any?
Yes, they are also often called, Stenographers or Transcriptionists; however, if you wish to use your skills in a courtroom, your state may require certification or licensing, as well as the proper training. Think of it this way… A Court Reporter is often thought of as a Stenographer; however, Stenographers are not always Court Reporters.
Am I limited to working in the court system as a Stenographer or Transcriptionist?
No, not at all. They both translate the spoken word to the written word. And, the process is not used only in the courtroom. The process is also used in closed captioning TV broadcasts, in general office business operations, and for the hearing impaired. With stenography skills, you will have a wide variety of job options available to you.
Is there a dress code for Court Reporters?
In the courtroom, you must look your best. Dress clothes are recommended at all times. After all, you are representing your employer, as well as the legal team and clients you are serving.
What is the acceptable accrediting agency for online schools offering Court Reporting programs?
The National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) sets the standards!
Best Online Schools for Court Reporting
You will find below a few of the most popular Court Reporting programs that are readily available in the form of a certificate program or an associate degree program. As you check out our choices for the Best Online Schools for Court Reporting, please note that they are listed in random order, as they each offer unique programs to fit everyone’s needs. They were chosen based on the following:
- Provides 100% Online format availability,
- Includes Certificate and/or Associate degree options in Court Reporting,
- Offers dependable learning management system for online learning,
- Prepares students for entry-level positions in the field of Court Reporting,
- Provides the same quality education through an online format that you would receive on-campus,
- Displays proper Accreditation credentials,
- Some schools will offer on-campus mock courtroom and lab experiences, as well as internship opportunities,
- Supplies technical centers, guidance, and career help centers as needed,
- Allows for a small faculty to student ratio, providing you with the assistance and training in Court Reporting you deserve.
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Alfred State: SUNY
online Court Reporting Certificate or Associate Degree
Program Standouts:
The online campus of Alfred State: SUNY offers a Certificate in Court Reporting and Captioning as well as an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Court and RealTime Reporting. SUNY, which stands for the State University of New York, is made up of 64 institutions, including research universities, academic medical centers, liberal arts colleges, community colleges, colleges of technology, and an online learning network.
SUNY is the largest comprehensive university system in the United States. Alfred State is a College of Technology located in Alfred, New York, southeast of Buffalo. With 3,735 graduates, Alfred State: SUNY has a low ratio of 18:1 students to teachers. The online certificate and associate degree in Court Reporting are both certified by the National Court Reporters Association. The faculty teaching the courses are the same faculty who teach on-campus at Alfred State: SUNY.
Campus Location: Alfred, New York
Accreditation:
- Certificate and Associate’s Degree in Court Reporting are both certified by the National Court Reporters Association
- Regionally Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance Rate: 67.7%
- Graduation Rate: 51.7%
Admission Requirements:
- Application Form
- Application Fee
- Academic Records
Program Options:
- Certificate in Court Reporting and Captioning
- Associate of Applied Science in Court and Real-time Reporting
Degree Outcomes:
A Court Reporting Certificate at Alfred State: SUNY prepares students for entry-level careers in the field, such as a realtime reporter, captioner, or freelance reporter. Jobs are available for trained court reporters to work in all fields including closed captioning for the hearing impaired. This program will aid in your training and experience as you master your typing skills; 225 words per minute. You will also master the use of CAT and real-time translation machine shorthand. A Court Reporting Associate Degree develops students’ skills in transcribing and reporting specialized court reporting matters.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE COURT REPORTING CERTIFICATE AND ASSOCIATE DEGREE AT ALFRED STATE: SUNY.
Arlington Career Institute
Court Reporting distance learning program
Program Standouts:
Arlington Career Institute is a family-owned institution that has been successfully providing students with education since 1982. Arlington provides both day and night classes to fit with any lifestyle. Many of the programs at Arlington offer an externship class that pairs students with working professionals to provide valuable hands-on industry training. Arlington also helps guide students through the process of finding a job with their Career Placement Assistance program. Arlington offers an Online Court Reporting program that offers all the benefits of the on-site program, along with the convenience of flexibility through online distance learning.
Stenograph and Schoology are used as online learning management systems allowing ACI to access all assignments, exams, record-keeping documents, and other student communication forums, such as classroom chat logs. Through their online delivery of court reporting coursework, students can practice challenging material at their convenience to meet the necessary standards of each course. Arlington Career Institute has an exceptional graduation rate of 72% which compares favorably to the average graduation rate of 33.3%.
Campus Location: Grand Prairie, Texas
Accreditation:
- Arlington Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
- Arlington Career Institute’s Court Reporting program is approved by the Board of Approved Student Education of the National Court Reporters Association.
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 72%
Admission Requirements:
- Application for Admission
- A visit to Arlington Career Institute or a call to the Admissions Office.
- High school diploma, high school transcripts, or GED certificate
- Full or partial payment of the $100 enrollment fee
- Completed Enrollment Agreement
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of the ACI Court Reporting online program are prepared to obtain an entry-level position as a court reporter, closed captioner, or CART reporter. The students’ machine shorthand speed is increased to 225 wpm. The program includes training in many other skills including medical terminology, jury charge, courtroom and deposition procedures, and real-time reporting. Typical workplace settings include courtrooms, television stations, closed captioning companies, court reporting firms, insurance companies, law offices, government offices, college campuses, and legislative bodies.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COURT REPORTING ONLINE PROGRAM AT ARLINGTON CAREER INSTITUTE.
Brown College of Court Reporting
Court Reporting Program Online
Recommended Schools
Program Standouts:
At Brown College of Court Reporting, they have created an exceptional online curriculum that allows students to receive all of the many benefits that on-campus students expect, such as faculty who are experts in their field, access to staff and fellow classmates, as well as other learning resources. With Brown College’s online Court Reporting program, you will have the flexibility to complete your coursework and practice from anywhere you are.
Brown’s online learning management system is offered through BlackBoard Collaborate and through Moodle. Online courses are offered live; therefore, set your clock so you won’t miss a thing! In addition, Brown uses RealTime Coach which is an additional learning format designed to give students the real-time experience of Court Reporting.
Campus Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Accreditation:
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education
- Certified by the National Court Reporters Association
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance Rate: 83.3%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
Admission Requirements:
- $50 application fee
- Copy of a high school diploma, college diploma, or GED Certificate
- Copy of two forms of ID
- Passing scores on two entrance exams (English and Typing)
- A signed “student right to know” form if attending full-time classes
- Proof of education is required no later than the end of the first quarter of enrollment
Program Sample Courses:
- Legal Terminology
- Reporter Dictation
- Freelance Externship
- Court Reporting Technology
Degree Outcomes:
As today’s Court Reporters rely heavily upon their knowledge of technology, rest assured that Brown College of Court Reporting has you covered. With proper training, organization, self-motivation, and independence, you can expect to obtain many entry-level jobs in the field. This program will allow you to receive the training you need to be properly certified and make a good first impression!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE COURT REPORTING PROGRAM AT BROWN COLLEGE OF COURT REPORTING.
Stark State College
Online Associate of Applied Business degree in Judicial Court Reporting
Program Standouts:
Stark State College offers a Judicial Court Reporting online program. It is a joint program between Clark State Community College and Stark State College. From a combination of both programs, you will earn an online Associate of Applied Business in Judicial Court Reporting. Through Clark/Stark, students will learn to compose real-time using a computerized machine and to prepare transcripts by using CAT software.
At Stark State College, students will gain knowledge from their specialized drills, in addition to access to on-campus labs and mock courtrooms. Students will also gain valuable real-world practice through the required internship experience.
Campus Location: North Canton, Ohio
Accreditation:
- The joint program meets or exceeds the general requirements and minimum standards required by the National Court Reporters Association
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 19.4%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed Application
- Official High School Transcript or GED Certificate
- Placement Assessment
Program Course Sample:
- Business Communication
- Real-time Business Procedures
- Ethics
- Legal Terminology
Degree Outcomes:
Upon completion of an Associate of Applied Business degree in Judicial Court Reporting at Stark State College, graduates leave with the knowledge needed to obtain an entry-level position as a Court Reporter, Captioner, CART Provider, or Freelance Reporter. You will be able to write/transcribe at 225 words per minute with at least 95% accuracy. You will demonstrate all required skills need in the field of Court Reporting.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED BUSINESS DEGREE IN JUDICIAL COURT REPORTING PROGRAM AT STARK STATE COLLEGE.
College of Court Reporting
AAS in Court Reporting Distance Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
The College of Court Reporting of Indiana was founded in 1984. They offer a comprehensive curriculum and up-to-date theory practices. In addition, they take pride in offering the latest innovative technology available in the field of Court Reporting. At the College of Court Reporting, you may earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Court Reporting. CCR’s process allows for easy access to hours upon hours of dictation materials designed to build speed and skill.
The College of Court Reporting is offered through a distance learning format offering you flexibility and convenience. As a full-time student, you can complete your AAS degree in Court Reporting within 28 months. You must supply your own Steno machine and transcription software. They also offer a Court Reporting Certificate program.
Campus Location: Hobart, Indiana
Accreditation:
- Online and onsite Associate Degree in Court Reporting program has been certified by the NCRA since 1987
- Authorized with the Indiana Board for Proprietary Education since 1985
- Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
- Online Court Reporting program was given a grant of accreditation by ACICS in 2001
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 18.7%
Admission Requirements:
- Evidence of high school graduation
- $50 registration fee
- Admissions Survey
- Enrollment Application
- Enrollment Contract
Program Sample Courses:
- Foundations of Language and Writing
- Culture and Society
- Medical Terminology
Degree Outcomes:
The College of Court Reporting will prepare graduates for an entry-level position as a court reporter, broadcast captioner, CART reporter, in addition to a stenographer or administrative assistant. You’ll receive an exceptional education as you pursue your dreams!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE IN COURT REPORTING PROGRAM AT THE COLLEGE OF COURT REPORTING.
Organizations to Join
The National Court Reporters Association is the formal accrediting organization that will ensure you a quality education as you earn your certificate or degree. The NCRA is internationally recognized and works diligently to promote excellence in the field of court reporting and the professionals who pursue it as a career. Membership in the NCRA provides many benefits, such as networking opportunities, as well as educational and certification options. Check them out today!
If you are or aspire to be a court reporter, join the STAR organization! With over 700 members, they are focused on helping professionals further their career opportunities through technology, training, educational resources, and networking events. Join today!
The National Verbatim Reporters Association is also dedicated to helping you succeed! Founded in 1967, NVRA focuses on the practice of voice writing. They offer support to their members, conferences, and newsletters, as well as certification opportunities. They offer membership at several levels and also to students of court reporting.
The United States Court Reporters Association represents professionals within the federal court reporting system. Established in 1945, they continually seek to share knowledge, as well as improving skills to honor the occupation. They maintain the highest standards relevant to verbatim reporting, with a dedication to the judicial system, and promote continuing educational opportunities, all while encouraging the use of the most up-to-date and innovative technology available today. Check out their membership page to view the benefits!
“Did you know?” Court Reporter Facts
- Court reporting dates back to 63 B.C.
- It began with a man by the name of Marcus Tullius Tiro, who worked for the Roman lawyer and philosopher named Cicero. Tiro’s extensive system of shorthand was comprised of 4,000 signs.
- As the technology evolved, an American court reporter named Miles Bartholomew created the first stenotype machine in 1877.
- Mark Kislingbury (USA) from Houston, TX holds the Guinness World Record for typing 360 words in a minute… with 97.23% accuracy! His record was set on July 30, 2004.