Court Reporter Earnings

When someone has a court reporter career it means that they type transcripts of conversations had during meetings, hearings, and more. The job of court reporters is to take down word for word what is said. This is a legal record of all court proceedings. You will find these reporters at trials, depositions, and any other type of courtroom proceeding. It's an interesting job, and the court reporter salary ranges are higher than the average salary.

The way the reporter is able to take down what everyone is saying without getting behind is because they use a special typewriter called a steno-type machine. There are a combination of letters that represent whole phrases, words, or even sounds. After the legal proceedings have ended the reporter then translates the symbols that were taken down during the session.

There is a newer steno-type machine available that actually translates the symbols as they are being typed into the words, phrases, or sounds that they are meant to be. The reporters duties can include things like transcribing and checking the notes for accuracy. They also have to correct in spelling or grammar errors and then send copies of the transcript to the judge to be approved.

The qualifications for becoming a reporter for the courts include excellent grammar and spelling skills along with experience in machine and written shorthand. Of course typing skills are the most important and the court reporter is usually required to type around 200 words per minute or more.

There are many schools that teach court reporting and offer degree programs. To become an electronic reporter there is a lot of on the job training that takes place and it can take up to about two and a half years to become a reporter for the courts or steno-typist. There are personal skills that court reporters must have in order to succeed at this job. Some of these skills include clear speaking, good concentration, and great listening skills.