January Featured Court Reporter: Christopher Reho RPR, CCR

January 7, 2016 by

Christopher-Reho

HOW DID YOU BEGIN YOUR CAREER IN COURT REPORTING?

My first introduction to court reporting came when my sister started working at a captioning company that employed several court reporters. She decided to pursue a court reporting career and had told me all about it. I was in high school at the time and thought it sounded like an interesting job. I was too young to start any college programs, but I wanted to begin my training as soon as possible. So I did some research and enrolled in an online training program. After high school, I interned at some court reporting firms in Pittsburgh and was hired shortly afterward.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO COOK & WILEY?

I worked for several years for a small court reporting firm in Pittsburgh. After getting married, my wife and I decided to pursue our careers in Virginia. I called Cook & Wiley just to find out more about the firm and was surprised when my call was directed straight to Jeanne Wiley! We met and discussed Cook & Wiley, and I knew it was where I wanted to work.

WHAT INTERESTING OR MEMORABLE MOMENT HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED WHILE COURT REPORTING?

A few months after I started my career, I was sent to a job to cover a hearing for the City of Pittsburgh Planning Commission. I was provided very few details beforehand, so when I arrived, I was surprised to see a room filled with TV cameras and protesters. The Planning Commission was taking up a controversial new development, and this was the first of a series of meetings. The councilwoman tried to keep the chanting of the audience to a minimum, and I survived with a clean transcript. The next morning my office manager called me and said, “I saw you on TV last night!” I never knew court reporting would make me famous!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NEW COURT REPORTER?

It is important to make a good impression and be helpful. Be prepared to provide extra pens and Sharpies so that the attorneys don’t have to search for them while focusing on their examination. Be willing to provide attorneys visiting from out of town with recommendations for places to eat or visit. Little gestures like these go a long way to make your clients appreciate you and want to do business with you again.

WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING?

When I’m not working, I am most likely playing video games or taking long hikes all over Virginia with my wife and dog. We especially like visiting Roanoke and Norfolk.

Filed Under: Court Reporters

Five Important Things to Look for in a Video Conferencing System

December 7, 2015 by

Video conferencing is a relatively new way for companies to hold meetings without having to have all participants in the same physical location. It works using special software and video and audio hardware to bring all participants together in one platform where they can hold discussions, view presentations and conduct any business as if they were all in the same location.

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There are many benefits to having a video conferencing system. If a company has people moving about often, going from place to place or has different offices located all around the globe, a video conferencing system will allow everyone to come together for a meeting without having to worry about organizing schedules and travel plans. It can save time and money while increasing productivity.

So, when your company is ready to start using video conferencing, what are some important things you need to look for? There are five main things that you want to keep in mind when choosing a video conferencing system.

1. Keep the Bottom Line in Mind

When you are considering a system, you have to keep the bottom line in mind. You want to set a budget and stick to it. It’s important to make sure that the system you are considering includes everything you need so you can estimate the total costs. Also, think about if the system is easy enough to use that all employees can use it without having to spend too much time or money on training. Consider whether you have the proper network set up to handle the demands of the system and that you have an area where the system can be set up. Otherwise, you will have to add in additional costs for network upgrades and expenses for creating a conference space.

2. Consider What Components You Need

Video conferencing requires cameras, microphones, monitors and conferencing software. You may already have some of these things. For example, if your employees have laptops, then they likely already have the camera, microphone and monitor they will need. However, you may need to upgrade your components to work within the system.

3. Outline Your Meeting Needs

It is important to understand how your meetings are conducted so that you will be able to figure out what type of video conferencing features you will need. You’ll need to consider how many people are normally in a meeting, if the meeting needs to be recorded, how long meetings last and if meetings are normally scheduled or if they just occur as needed. Decide if you will need to be able to play videos and give presentations during a meeting through the software and if you are concerned about high definition qualities. Knowing all these details will enable you to choose the video conferencing features that will work best for your situation.

4.Take a Look at the Video Gateway

Every video conferencing system will have a gateway that enables you to run the meeting. It will help you to ensure everyone is connected and that all components are working properly. In addition, it is where you will be able to start presentations or videos that may be shown during the meeting. It is essential to understand how to use this and be comfortable using it. The controls should be easy to use. You want to be able to explain how to use them quickly so that one person doesn’t have to be in charge of the gateway for every meeting that is held using the system.

5. Check Into Customer Service

As with anything of this nature that you buy, you may need to contact the company that you get the software from. That is why it is very important to ensure the company offers superior customer service. The company should offer technical support that will be able to walk you through almost any issue that may come up. You want to be sure that if you have any issues that you can get them quickly resolved. The last thing you need is to waste everyone’s time by having them wait around to start a meeting because you are trying to get help from customer service.

While you may not really understand how a video conferencing system is going to work until you get some practical experience using it in your company, it still is helpful to consider these five points before you make that purchase. By taking some time to consider all the details, you will be more likely to make a purchase that works for your company and that will truly provide your company with benefits over other options, like just holding traditional meetings.

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Filed Under: Video Conferencing

Review of the Best Court Reporting Schools

November 30, 2015 by

stenograph-scholarshipsCourt reporting is a great career that provides stability and a solid income. In order to become a court reporter, though, you must have proper training. There is a lot more involved in doing the job than being able to type fast. You’ll need to complete a court reporter training program at a court reporting school to learn the many duties of the job. There are a variety of schools out there to choose from, but finding the best one can be tricky.

How to Access Schools

While it can be very difficult to figure out which school is the best, making your choice is a lot easier when you consider the recommendations of the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). The NCRA is an internationally recognized organization that serves as a resource for the court reporting industry. The organization has set standards for court reporting education programs and has a list of schools that have been certified as meeting these standards on its website.

Being certified by the NCRA is a great indication that a school is offering top-quality education. In addition, the NCRA requires proper accreditation for schools to be certified, so you can trust that all the schools are properly accredited. What this means is that it meets requirements set by the government to provide high quality education and training so that when you graduate, you will be properly trained to work as a court reporter.

How to Choose the Best School

While the title of best court reporting school can be debated, any school certified by the NCRA could be considered a top school. When you are looking at schools, though, the best school for you will come down to what your needs are and what you want to get out of your training.

Some schools will offer classes at their campus only. Some offer online only classes. Other will offer both options. Online programs may offer an interactive experience where you attend classes via a video conference type setting or may be less interactive and have you use message boards to interact with other students and the instructor. Programs on campus may be offered only during the day or the school may offer flexible options during the evening and on weekends. The length of the course may also vary from school to school.

There are also different types of technology employed by schools. Some may use simulation software that allows you to practice as if you were in a real courtroom. You may be required to do a certain amount of real time reporting with the simulation software. Other schools may not use this type of technology and use an alternative type of program to give you the required practical experience.

When looking at schools, it is important that you consider all the different aspects to ensure that you choose a school that is a good fit. You want to feel comfortable with the school and program in order to set yourself up for success.

Top Court Reporting Schools

Here’s a look at some NCRA certified schools that offer court reporting programs.

Sage College has offered court reporter training for over 40 years. The school offers classes on campus and online. As part of the course, you are prepared to take several exams, such as the Registered Professional Reporter exam, if you choose to pursue registration or certification after graduation.

Bryan University offers online courses in a real-time environment. It is kind of like being on a video conference every time you attend class. This unique experience helps you to interact with your instructors and other students. The school also offers national certification preparation.

New York Career Institute offers a structured curriculum where you will learn how to work with the English language and use a steno machine. The school offers a certificate program and an associate’s degree program.

Alvin Community College was established in 1975. This school has been recognized for its outstanding program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Brown College of Court Reporting is located in the state of Georgia and is the only NCRA certified program in this state. The school offers day or evening classes and online classes to meet the needs of busy students.

While it is a personal decision for you to decide which school is the best one , you can be sure that as long as the school is NCRA certified, you are on the right track. Having a solid reputation and being accredited helps to ensure that you will be getting the best education possible. You’ll be properly prepared to start a career in court reporting once you graduate.

Filed Under: Court Reporting, Court Reporting Jobs

November Featured Court Reporter: Leslie Etheredge, RMR

November 2, 2015 by

leslie-cook-and-wiley

Start Date: 9/28/2009

How did you begin your career in court reporting?

I grew up in a small town in Iowa. After graduating high school, I began working at a law office as a legal secretary.   Up until that point, I had never thought about the field of court reporting, but I became good friends with several court reporters and thought it would be a fascinating career. I began talking to my family about the possibility of attending college with the goal of becoming a court reporter. With their support and encouragement, I relocated to the American Institute of Business in Des Moines, Iowa.   After graduation, my husband and I decided to move to Virginia for what we thought would just be a few years. Those few years have now turned into over 25 years.

What brought you to Cook & Wiley?

I first met Jeanne at the Virginia Court Reporters Association conventions and we had stayed in touch over the years. I was looking for a change in 2009 and all the right pieces fell into the right places.   The party for the 25th anniversary of Cook & Wiley was just a few days later, and it was so much fun meeting all of our reporters and many of our clients in one evening.

What interesting or memorable moment have you experienced while court reporting?

It is hard to narrow the list down to just one or two.   I have reported several capital murder trials and you never forget those cases. I have many funny moments I remember such as when two jurors got into a physical fight in the jury room and refused to continue deliberations, so the judge had to declare a mistrial. Then there was the defendant who was caught taking a lawnmower out of a broken shop window and he insisted he found the lawnmower outside and was just returning it back into the store.    On another day, while reporting a deposition, the attorney asked the plaintiff if he had any scars. He thought about it for a moment and then said yes, I do, I can show you the scar, if you would like. The attorney replied yes. Then the man stood up and upzipped his pants and showed us his vasectomy scar. I think both the attorney and I were speechless. I could not make eye contact with anyone during the remainder of that deposition.

What advice would you give to a new court reporter?

Keep on working on your dictionary.   I still am changing the way I write words and am always ready to find a new brief form, if it makes sense to me and I can retain it in my brain. Always have some sort of snack with you.   Remember that most people are always happy to help, if you just speak up and ask.

Where can we find you when you are not working?

Cooking, bicycling, camping and boating (but not necessarily in that order).

Filed Under: Court Reporters

September Featured Court Reporter: Ruth Levy CCR RPR

September 1, 2015 by

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Start Date: 6/16/2009

How did you begin your career in CR?

I’m one of the few people I’ve ever met who knew what they wanted to do when they grew up and  actually did it.  Someone came to my 10th grade typing class and talked about being a court reporter.  At the time, LA Law was a popular show on TV.  I knew I loved learning about the law and the things that went on, but I also knew that being a lawyer would not be for me.  When this court reporter came to my class, I had found my true calling.  She said it would be good for anyone who was good at typing.  That’s me!  She said it would be good for anyone who played the piano.  That’s me!  She said it was good for anyone who loved to hear an interesting story (just about) every day.  That’s me!  I knew then and there that’s what I would go into.  I remember telling my dad, especially, when I got home (he’s the one who talked me into taking typing in the first place), and he said he knew nothing about it but we would look into it.  I don’t think anyone at that time took me seriously.  But I never wavered.  I plodded through shorthand class and more typing classes and looked for a school to attend after high school.  I attended school at the Academy of Court Reporting in Akron, Ohio.  I graduated in under two years and had an interview a week after I graduated.  I fulfilled another dream of mine and moved to Toronto, Canada on May 20th, 1992 and took a job at Farr & Associates. All before I could legally drink!

 

What brought you to C&W?

My husband and I worked in Toronto, Canada for about two years before we realized we would probably not be able to live there for the long-term.  My husband was a court reporter as well (met each other in my second month there at the same firm!) but he didn’t love it like I did.  He decided to go back to school to get his master’s degree in teaching.  Three cities interested us, but Richmond, Virginia was at the top of the list because a colleague there at our firm had moved from Richmond to Toronto and had great things to say about it!  So when my husband was accepted to VCU, we made a visit to Richmond to look around.  We made a lunch date with Jeanne Wiley at the restaurant two doors down from their Robinson Street office and by the time we left that lunch date, not only did I know where I wanted to work, she offered to rent us the apartment above the office!  How convenient!  I worked for C&W and Julie Davis Reporting until ’97, when Davis got busy enough to keep me full time, but through a series of events, I ended up back with C&W in 2009.  I felt like I was home again!

 

WHAT INTERESTING OR MEMORABLE MOMENT HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED WHILE COURT REPORTING?

I think my most memorable experiences happened in Toronto in my first few months of reporting.  I was given the task of daily copy at energy rate hearings with a panel of experts questioning energy experts.  The reporters would take down 15 minutes at a time and then switch out without ever interrupting, overlapping a sentence or two, and slip out to edit that portion until it was their next turn.  There were three reporters taking turns.  It was high pressure and before you knew it, the timer was up, and it was your turn!  It was like a game!  At the end of the day, you finished up your last segments and went home.  Very satisfying!  I was always so behind in the beginning, but eventually I got better at it!  Another moment in recent years was when I had a deposition that went along as usual, and at the end, the attorney asked some basic background questions.  The attorney asked the witness, Are you married?  To which the witness replied, No — yes!  Laughter all around.  The attorney did ask for clarification on that one!  I have also, in recent years, helped disabled law students take the Bar exam.  Very interesting and rewarding stuff!

 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEW COURT REPORTER?

I would always tell new reporters to give it a chance.  It’s not a career for everyone – just ask my husband!  But it is a very rewarding one, a very flexible one, a very lucrative one if you really work hard at it.  It’s a skill not everyone can achieve, and you have to feel confident going in to every job that “you can do this!”  Build a good dictionary, be organized, be helpful to everyone (including other reporters) and be someone anyone can count on – your firm owner, the attorneys, the judge.  You have an important role to play in the justice system, and it should not be taken lightly.

 

WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING?

Probably in the kitchen!  Even when I should be working on pages, I’m probably in the kitchen!  (Shh, don’t tell Jeanne!) I love to cook and bake for my family, for other people, even strangers, and it just relaxes me and brings me joy.  I love to spend time with my husband, my son, my daughter, and my two cats.  Fostering puppies and volunteering with Sanctuary Rescue (another C&W reporter’s baby) is something new to my life, but so fulfilling; I can see myself doing that for many years to come as well.  I also love spending time with my friends here in Richmond, Virginia, and of course, eating out!  That’s a hobby, right?

Filed Under: Court Reporters Tagged With: ,

8 Powerful Court Reporting Tips and Tricks

August 19, 2015 by

stenograph-scholarshipsThe job of a court reporter is one which can be quite complex and challenging. Duties extend beyond simply recording what is spoken by those within the courtroom; a reporter must also be adept with the setup and operation of job-related equipment. He or she must also establish rapport and communication with lawyers and witnesses to ensure quality service and accurate transcription.

Whether you’re just getting started in the field or you’re a seasoned veteran, there are plenty of strategies and tricks of the trade that can help you improve your capabilities. Here are eight to get you started.

1.       Don’t Just Be Punctual—Be Early

In many walks of life, being on time according to the clock is essentially showing up late. Walking in at the last minute not only adds stress for attorneys awaiting your presence, it forces you to set up in a hurry and affords you no time to prepare or respond to unexpected issues. Try to show up a half-hour early so that you have plenty of time to establish your workstation, speak with attorneys, and get your bearings.

2.       Interpret the Interpreters

With cases involving two different primary languages—or the use of sign language, in some cases—an interpreter may be necessary. It is the duty of a court reporter not only to make it clear when a witness is testifying versus when an interpreter is speaking, but also to swear in the interpreter with the proper verbiage. Make sure you’re prepared should this need arise.

3.       Spelling Specifics

Communicate with witnesses to confirm the spelling of their first and last names for the record, and don’t assume that common names are spelled just as you expect. Using breaks and the period immediately following the deposition to secure proper spellings can be helpful when opportunities don’t present themselves readily during testimonies.

4.       Working With Attorneys

It’s important to establish rapport with attorneys you work directly with and to provide them with service which meets the needs of the case. Often times, transcripts may be requested to be expedited or kept confidential. Clarify what these requests truly mean. “I need it tomorrow” can be a vastly different request than “I need it first thing tomorrow morning”—be sure you know what the expectations are.

Similarly, confidentiality is a sensitive issue. You’ll want to confirm whether the entire transcript is to be marked as such, and if so, what specific language should be used on the cover page. Some attorneys may request headers on each page indicating the confidentiality of the document; again, it’s best to confirm upfront to avoid dissatisfaction from clients.

5.       Statement Semantics

Not every witness prefers to be sworn in. Affirming your testimony is legally equivalent to swearing under oath, but depending on any individual’s religious beliefs, swearing may not be preferred or even permitted. Be ready for either situation.

6.       Don’t Fall Behind

A court reporter’s job duties can make it difficult to keep up and maintain an accurate record when witnesses rush, mumble, or when there are multiple persons speaking at the same time. While it’s important that you do not frequently interrupt proceedings or halt testimony for the wrong reasons, it’s vital that you know when to speak up in order to regain control of a situation so you can perform your job properly.

 7.       Always Be Prepared

If you have reason to believe that a particular case will include testimony which is complex or highly technical in nature, it’s helpful to prepare yourself in advance. Try to secure lists of names, terms, or acronyms which may be difficult to transcript accurately in real-time.

 8.       Stay Current

In addition to continually practicing and developing your skills as a court reporter, it’s also recommended that you keep current with industry tools. Make sure that both your computer and steno components are in good repair and that all necessary software, cables, and accessories are maintained and ready for action. Get familiar with the use of timers in the case you receive a request to track the duration of a deposition.

Conclusion

While there are certainly many unique facets to court reporting, many of the most effective tips and tricks are those which relate to almost any industry:

  • Conduct yourself professionally and courteously at all times
  • Dress appropriately for your work environment
  • Continue to advance and develop your job skills consistently
  • Always strive to deliver outstanding service to your clients

By following these lines of thinking, you’re sure to project an image of poise and confidence that will serve you well on the job. Sometimes there’s simply no replacement for experience, but by that same token, experience is no replacement for quality service and dedicated professionalism.

 

Sources:

  1. http://www.brownjones.com/blog/court-reporting/what-makes-a-great-court-reporter-21-tips/
  2. http://www.brownjones.com/blog/court-reporting/deposition-reporters-how-do-you-handle-an-interpreter/
  3. http://skreporting.com/7-deposition-tips-court-reporters-want-attorneys-to-know/
Filed Under: Court Reporting Tagged With: , ,

Funny Courtroom Transcripts

August 7, 2015 by

5866761_blogIf you’ve been caught rereading your court transcripts, perhaps you’ve been the butt of a joke or two about your vanity. However, even the best lawyers know the importance of reliving your courtroom experiences. No matter how intelligent or well educated you are you’ve probably had a few moments where you wondered what you were thinking. Sure, you have plenty of amazing days behind you where you’ve had a witness in the palm of your hand. That doesn’t mean you are immune to a slower day here and there. Rereading your transcripts can help you avoid more mistakes in the future as well as teach you to be more aware of yourself and your line of questioning. To illustrate that point, here are a few humorous examples of courtroom exchanges that haven’t quite gone as expected.

The (Unintentionally) Sarcastic

Sometimes, you will encounter a difficult witness. Other times, they might be unintentionally sarcastic.

Lawyer: “What is your date of birth?”

Witness: “July 15th.”

Lawyer: “What year?”

Witness: “Every year.”

Well, the witness was honest, though this perhaps is reminiscent of your college years when the bouncer wanted to know if you were old enough to be in that bar.

Lawyer: “Can you describe what the person who attacked you looked like?”

Witness: “No. He was wearing a mask.”

Lawyer: “What was he wearing under the mask?”

Witness: “Er…his face.”

In this case, the lawyer gave the witness no choice but to answer the question as honestly as possible. Asking a redundant question will happen once in a while during your career. Be prepared for a few laughs at the office if you are brave enough to recount the moment to your peers. Don’t worry. Everyone has a few of these stories under their belts.

 

The Technically Correct

When you call a witness up to the stand, more often than not he or she is not going to intentionally work against you. Sometimes, you accidently lead them into a situation where he or she cannot avoid a painfully obvious answer.

Attorney: What did the doctor tell you was the condition of the body when he performed the autopsy?

Witness: He described it as dead.

While this is a hilarious situation, the lawyer may have avoided this witness’ answer by being more specific with the question. The following is another example of where ultra precise questions can be useful.

Prosecutor: Do you see the defendant in court today?

Witness: Yes, I do.

Prosecutor: How is he dressed?

Witness: He looks pretty sharp.

Undoubtedly, this witness really believed the defendant was well dressed and the courtroom may have even had a collective giggle after hearing this response. This is a perfect example of when you might just need to roll with the punches. After all, you cannot fault someone for having good taste in clothing.

 

The Honest to a Fault

As a counselor in a courtroom, you have to stay professional, but your witnesses don’t. Be careful of giving the individual on the stand too much of an opportunity to turn the line of questions around on you.

Lawyer: Is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?

Witness: No

Lawyer: How can you be so sure, Doctor?

Witness: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar

Lawyer: But could the patient have still been alive nevertheless?

Witness: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law somewhere.

Whatever you do be wary of this situation:

Counsel (to witness): Are you telling the truth?

Prosecutor: Objection; irrelevant.

Cynically speaking, this is certainly not a false statement. Any accomplished lawyer knows that with the right team and good work ethic a case can be won in murky circumstances. That said you probably shouldn’t make it obvious if the truth is not on your side.

If you find yourself in any of these situations, you might need to be more specific or direct as you question your witness. However, you might just need to have a good chuckle and proceed with your game plan. Funny moments are bound to happen as you continue in your law career. It is important to understand which situations indicate a need for improvement and which should just simply be chalked up to a humorous accident. As you progress, don’t forget to have a sense of humor or look for weak spots in your cross-examination skills. A good balance of both will see you through the case and into a steady string of victories. Plus, you’ll probably get a good bar story or two.

Sources:

  1. http://koehlerlaw.net/2012/05/amusing-trial-transcripts/
  2. http://www.rd.com/funny-stuff/funny-court-transcripts/
  3. http://www.rinkworks.com/said/courtroom.shtml
Filed Under: Court Reporting Tagged With: , , ,

Why Certification is Important for Court Reporters

July 22, 2015 by

court-reporters-transcribeThe court reporting profession can be a demanding line of work. It requires strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and an ability to focus in and capture speech and dialogue with a high level of accuracy. Although it is not always required by employers, certification in the field of court reporting offers many advantages. From honing your skills to making you a more viable candidate for employment, the benefits are numerous and should be considered by anyone who is interested in entering into this profession.

Refining Necessary Job Skills

Like many workers in transcription roles, court reporters must possess a range of skills in order to perform job duties adequately. They must be focused listeners and observers in order to properly interpret and record statements. A court reporter must also be an adept typist, able to accurately output many words per minute while making very few mistakes. These are the types of abilities which are developed as part of a certification program.

While it is certainly possible to refine one’s relevant job skills for court reporting independently, an accredited program offers measured goals which correlate with the demands and requirements of today’s professional environments. As a comparison, a track athlete can build endurance by running greater and greater distances over time, but he or she will not necessarily be assured that their training is sufficient to meet the needs of an official-length marathon without having measured and practiced that specific distance.

Staying Current With the Industry

Transcription professionals such as court reporters utilize specialized software which translates shorthand writing into standardized text, and as with any industry, both software and methodology can change over time. One of the key benefits of certification is that you—as well as prospective employers—will be confident that you are well-versed in the most current practices and applications.

Acquiring and maintaining your certification as a court reporter is also an excellent way to show that you’re in tune with the industry, including current trends, tools, as well as applicable theories and techniques. It’s also a good way to show an employer your dedication and commitment to continually advancing your skills in the field, frequently considered an attractive trait in job applicants.

Building Personal Confidence

The work of a court reporter is extremely detail-oriented and demands a high degree of professionalism and composure. One of the most effective ways to develop your professional poise is to build confidence in your talents as a reporter. Attaining certification in your field provides natural assurance that you’re definitely cut out for the job, and not just for you—for potential employers as well.

Becoming a Qualified Professional

There’s more to the work of a court reporter than straightforward transcription. An experienced worker in this field is one who is comfortable presenting and conducting him or herself professionally, a necessity for legal settings. A good reporter is fluent in setup and operation of necessary equipment as well as archiving, translating, and distributing recorded materials to the proper parties.

A quality certification program will ensure that you possess the full range of skills necessary for success in this career field. While direct transcription abilities usually represent the greatest focus for aspiring professionals, it’s important to gain a full understanding of the common day-to-day duties which reporters are responsible for as well.

Increasing Your Value

Last and certainly not least, one of the foremost goals of any certification program is to enhance one’s market value. Competition is fierce for desirable positions in just about every industry these days; boasting distinction as a certified court reporter can be an automatic leg-up over many of your competitors.

Certification serves to display not only that you possess refined skills necessary to the job, but it also conveys a sense of commitment to your professional field, a big plus for many employers seeking long-term contributors to their organizations. Additionally, it is estimated that certified court reporters enjoy access to more lucrative employment opportunities, their value increasing as they acquire and hone new skills.

In Summary

Preparing yourself to participate in a competitive industry requires time and effort to develop the necessary skills, but your hard work alone won’t carry you nearly as far without a certificate which ties it all together. To boost your confidence, expand your capabilities, and enhance your market value, consider obtaining certification as court reporter. It’s not only an ideal way to get your foot in the door of a new industry—it can elevate your worth as a more experienced worker in the field as well.

Filed Under: Court Reporting, Court Reporting Jobs Tagged With: ,

What is a Verbatim Transcript?

July 14, 2015 by

A transcript is a written account of a conversation, interview, hearing, or other Court-Reporters-Services-1024x683meeting which involves dialogue or presented information that may be useful for reference at a future date. There are several different types, although transcripts generally fall under one of two main headings: verbatim or non-verbatim. As the name suggests, a verbatim transcript is one which captures each moment and utterance with complete, accurate detail—in other words, a truly verbatim account.

While it may seem that any transcript should technically be a precise record of what has been spoken, there are several different levels of detail required for what are commonly known as edited and intelligent transcripts. The differences are subtle, but they often result in substantially different products in the end.

Understanding Different Transcript Types

In an intelligent transcript, it is not necessary to include every word and sound as originally uttered. For example, false starts (unfinished sentences) and fillers (such as “um” or “like”) are generally omitted from this type of document as they do not add useful context or perspective.

In many cases, an edited transcript may require even less detail, as it is more focused on capturing only the crucial details and information exchanged. An understanding of the content being discussed is often necessary to produce edited transcripts efficiently, as one must possess the ability to quickly recognize pertinent information from that which is unnecessary for archival purposes.

Common Uses for Non-Verbatim Transcripts

Intelligent transcripts are often utilized for interviews or other non-legal conferences where intonation, cadence, and non-spoken information are less vital for the official records. It is generally not necessary to capture every sound and nuance in these cases, but rather to focus on the primary questions and answers—the core of the information which is being exchanged.

An edited transcript might be more useful when documenting longer or more detailed speeches, conferences, or seminars, as a few examples. In these cases, the focus is generally on preserving the broad ideas, keeping relevant information accessible and organized, and omitting portions which will not prove useful to those referencing transcripts at later dates.

Focusing on the Details

Finally, there is the verbatim transcript. In this type of document, every individual word, partial word, inaudible portion of speech, sound, and even periods of silence must be recorded precisely. These types of transcriptions are often utilized for legal purposes, making it crucial to capture the tone, mood, and disposition of speakers in addition to the actual words spoken.

In a verbatim transcript, there is no clean up of grammatical errors or mispronunciations. Every utterance is to be recorded as it was made, often necessitating the creative use of punctuation in order to accurately convey false starts, repetitions, and other non-standard speech elements. Non-verbal sounds are usually noted within parentheses, such as to describe coughs, laughter, or ambient sounds like doors opening and closing.

Creating a verbatim transcript also requires nuanced attention in order to faithfully depict important information such as deep breaths, long pauses, and auditory cues such as sighs. All of these seemingly minor elements of human interaction help to paint a more vivid picture of a conversation, which may be vital in many circumstances in order to depict the mood or mental state of a respondent.

Uses for Verbatim Transcripts

Court proceedings and other such legal hearings often require detailed accounts as the transcripts may be later referenced to identify conflicting statements made by a plaintiff or defendant, for example. Many organizations may utilize verbatim transcripts as well including government agencies, medical groups, and educational institutions.

Which Type Makes the Most Sense for Your Purposes?

Should you find yourself torn on what type of transcript is best suited for your needs, ask yourself a few basic questions first:

  • Who will be referencing the transcript in the future?
  • What are the consequences or implications which may arise from insufficient detail?
  • How much is your organization willing to budget for this process?

In most cases, a verbatim transcript is more labor-intensive to produce and therefore more costly. If fewer individuals are likely to reference the material in the future, or if there are no great consequences which might result from an account which is less detailed in nature, you can probably get by with an edited or intelligent transcript.

However, when important outcomes such as employment opportunities or legal decisions potentially hinge on the information as it is recorded, it’s probably wiser to invest in an account that provides greater detail. For the most accurate picture of an interaction as it originally happened, trust a verbatim transcript for best results.

Sources:

  1. https://www.transcribe.com/verbatim-vs-non-verbatim-transcription-what-is-the-difference/
  2. http://www.etranscriptionjob.com/Transcription-types-and-formats.html
Filed Under: Court Reporting Tagged With: ,

July Featured Court Reporter: Diane Gaynier CCR

July 1, 2015 by

Diane-Garnier-150x150

Start Date: 6/3/2008

HOW DID YOU BEGIN YOUR CAREER IN COURT REPORTING?

While cooking for a party and contemplating starting a catering business, I heard an ad on the radio touting all the wonderful aspects of court reporting.  The ad was for Reporting Academy of Virginia which was opening in Richmond.  The ad went something like:  Work closely with legal professionals, be your own boss, set your own hours, enjoy time off all while making great wages.  (Looking back, I probably should have sued for false advertising on a couple of their bullet points.)  BECOME A COURT REPORTER!

I wrote the number for the school down and forgot about it until I bolted up from a dead sleep that night and knew court reporting was supposed to be the next chapter of my life.  Twenty-five years later I am still thankful for hearing the ad on the radio.

 

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO COOK AND WILEY?

Spending eleven years entrenched in criminal court and federal grand jury, the constant negativity of the world began taking a toll on me and when one of my children said, Mom, the world is not that bad, I knew I needed to make a career change.

Having met Jeanne Wiley, while I was in reporting school, I gave her a call, we went to lunch and I walked out of the restaurant a member of the Cook and Wiley family.  Little did I know that my life as a stressed out court reporter was going to change so dramatically due to the wonderful staff that makes up C&W.  No more were the hours spent dealing with binding and mailing my transcripts, I now actually had time to pursue fun things that I had let go by the wayside because of lack of time.

The “family” of Cook & Wiley is like many other families, we see each other two to three times a year and yet we fall into place with one another and you can feel the love, respect and admiration that we have for each other.

 

WHAT INTERESTING OR MEMORABLE MOMENTS HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED WHILE COURT REPORTING?

My most memorable moment in court reporting came during my first week on the job.  I was sent to the federal prison in Petersburg to take the deposition of an inmate who was suing a corrections officer was the only information I had regarding the case.

Two attorneys, the inmate and I were crammed in a room so tiny that the slightest movement and you would bump knees with the person on either side of you.   The corrections officer, who had led us in, said he would be right outside the door if we needed anything.

As luck would have it, a powerful summer storm came up during the middle of the deposition and we lost power.  The room was pitch black because it was windowless.  As soon as the power went out the officer stepped back into the room until the generator came on within a couple minutes.

Apparently when the lights came on I was as white as a ghost and the attorneys asked if I was going to be able to continue.  Being the professional that I was trying to be (it was my first week) I said no problem and went straight to the next question.

As we were walking out of the deposition one of the attorneys commented that he thought they were going to lose me because I was so pale and said I’m sure you were concerned because of the nature of the inmate’s crimes.  I had no clue why the man was in federal custody.  That’s when the attorney informed me I had been bumping knees with a rapist/murderer.  Since that day I have figured that if I could get through that, I could get through most anything.  Sometimes ignorance is bliss.    Had I known the nature of his crimes, I probably would have passed out!

As a court reporter my job has afforded me insight into worlds I had no idea existed and made me very aware that right or wrong, everyone has “their” story to tell.

 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEW COURT REPORTER?

Say a prayer for all who are participating in your job that day.  We all can use a prayer and it makes what could be a stressful situation begin on a calm note.  Now, whether it stays that way remains to be seen.

Keep extra pens, mints and Tylenol in your bag.  I’ve passed out plenty of them in the past         21 years.

 

WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING?

Family and friends mean the world to me, so most often you will find me in their company.   I love trying new things so at the moment you would find me creating fused glass dishes, bowls and plaques.  Decorating and repurposing something old into something new again also brings me joy.

As for the cooking I was doing when I heard the reporting school ad on the radio, unfortunately for my husband, I’d rather be at the lake, river or ocean than cooking!

Filed Under: Court Reporters
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