OTR Attempt to answer FAQs about the court reporting profession.
What does a Court Reporter do?
A Court Reporter is a highly-trained professional individual who is licensed and/or certified to record proceedings using a stenotype machine. Court Reporters capture the spoken words in a phonetic code using a stenotype machine, with each line of characters representing a sound or syllable. From there the Court Reporter then translates the code into a formal written text to produce a final transcript. Court Reporters are often used in an examination for discoveries and other legal proceedings.
How does Stenography work?
Stenographs are small laptop-like devices that Court Reporters use to keep track of what is said as it is being said in the examination for discoveries or courtroom. The keyboard on the steno machine resembles a cross between a laptop and an old-fashioned typewriter. This is used to maximize typing speed. These machines are customized to type phonetic sounds instead of letters for maximizing typing rates and to note everything said. A Court Reporter attains this by hitting multiple keys simultaneously, to ensure that appropriate sound and inflection are recorded for future use.
Will Technology Be Able to Replace Court Reporters?
The general prediction is that Court Reporters will not be replaced by technology anytime soon. Although technological advancements can be a great asset, technology can also cause inaccurate recordings. Court Reporters are there in real-time and can ask questions/clarifications if needed. This is extremely important as Court Reporters need to be extremely accurate when recording legal proceedings.
How Many Words Does a Court Reporter Need to Type Per Minute?
To be qualified as a legal, certified Court Reporter, one must have a typing speed of up to 225 words per minute in Ontario with an overall accuracy rate of 97.5%.
How to Become a Certified Court Reporter?
To become a Court Reporter in Ontario, one must complete certifications and courses that specifically focus on court reporting. These courses take approximately 2-3 years to complete. Schools across Canada offer both in person; and online courses. Once you are admitted into a program, you must try to meet or exceed the minimum requirements for becoming a shorthand court reporter. The Senate of Canada requires you to have a minimum of 225 words per minute. After you complete your schooling, you can find yourself a job either in a self-employed position or within a company such as a law firm. Once a Court Reporter begins to gain experience they can charge more due to their increased seasoned skills.
At On The Record Court Reporting, we offer a very friendly, safe, and quiet environment to conduct your business. Whether it is a meeting or mediation, we are here to help make it as stress-free as possible. If you require a boardroom, please visit our website to book one today. We also have optional catering available upon request.