A court reporter does much more than only sitting in the courtroom and transcribing the proceedings. Their job involves much more than you imagine, as these experts ensure a word for word documentation for everything that happens inside the court. They have to be quick at typing to cover every detail. Good listening skills and presence of mind are also essential. But there is much more you should look for while hiring a professional for the job. Here are the most important qualities that a reliable court reporter must absolutely have.
Attention to detail
Nothing matters more than attention to detail when it comes to noting the proceedings in the courtroom. Delivering accurate transcripts requires these professionals to be mindful of what goes on around them. Good listening skills and keen observation are essential to capture crucial details. It is easier said than done when things transpire quickly, but one needs to stay one step ahead. Not paying attention to detail means one can miss out on important information or even pick wrong information. Court reporters also need to verify details such as spellings of names of people and places, medical jargon, and technical terms. They must go the extra mile to check grammar and typo errors before submitting official legal documents.
Hard work and diligence
Success in the profession requires relentless hard work throughout one’s career. Professionals have to start with formal education with a degree program in the field. These courses cover aspects such as steno theories, industry jargon, and the use of transcription machines. But Court Reporting is more about practical skills instead of theoretical knowledge. One has to invest hard work every day and learn new skills in real-life court settings. Practice makes one faster with typing, while good concentration ensures that nothing is missed. Court reporters can also upgrade their skills with special certifications and accreditations down the line. It can make them better at their job and increase their income potential.
Strong ethics
Apart from attention to detail and hard work, strong ethics make another significant quality for court reporters. They have an essential role in ensuring truth and justice in the legal system, making it a profession of high responsibility. As a result, they must behave ethically inside and outside the courtroom. Responsible behavior includes traits like fairness and reliability. While these professionals have to be honest and accurate at work, they also need to steer clear of divulging details of clients and cases beyond work. Even small things like looking groomed and professionally dressed in the court are a part of an ethical code of conduct. It is crucial to be neutral and avoid mingling with people linked with the cases they work on.
Court reporters have a crucial job, so they must behave with great responsibility and maturity. It is important to build on one’s skill set because the profession requires consistent work. Growth should never stop, and one must focus on good organization, promptness, and concentration to achieve credibility as a professional.
