Court reporting is where passion meets purpose. It’s more than typing fast—it’s preserving truth, supporting justice, and giving voice to every word spoken. If you’re detail-driven, love language, and want meaningful impact, this profession offers deep fulfillment. Your skills matter here. With dedication and heart, stenography becomes more than a career—it becomes a calling. Discover the power of your unique voice in the courtroom and beyond.
Author Archives: stenoimperium
The Fear of Retribution in the Court Reporting Industry – Navigating a Culture of Silence and Fear
The fear of retribution in the court reporting industry is a pervasive issue, where reporters hesitate to speak out against unethical practices like stolen transcripts or delayed payments due to the risk of losing work. This culture of silence is reinforced by tight-knit professional networks where outcasts face isolation and gossip. Addressing this fear requires fostering supportive communities and promoting transparency to protect reporters’ rights and uphold the integrity of the profession.
Court Reporter Anxiety – Managing Stress in a High-Stakes Career
Court reporting is a demanding profession that requires precision, focus, and mental resilience. The constant pressure to produce accurate transcripts, manage tight deadlines, and absorb emotionally intense content can lead to anxiety and burnout. Prioritizing mental health through self-care, mindfulness, and professional support is essential. By recognizing the signs of stress and taking proactive steps, court reporters can protect their well-being and thrive in their careers.
THE RECORD IS NOT OPTIONAL – Despite AB 2664, Attorneys Still Challenge Freelance Reporters in Courtrooms
In April 2025, a freelance court reporter shared a troubling story: an attorney attempted to oppose the appointment of a reporter pro tempore during a hearing. Despite clear legal precedent, the attorney challenged the reporter’s right to be present simply because the reporter was a freelancer. This should no longer be happening. California law settledContinue reading “THE RECORD IS NOT OPTIONAL – Despite AB 2664, Attorneys Still Challenge Freelance Reporters in Courtrooms”
Tax Tides and Transcript Troubles – How Southern California’s Hikes Hit Court Reporters
Southern California’s recent sales tax hikes—like Los Angeles County’s jump to 9.75%—are creating ripple effects beyond consumers, hitting independent professionals like court reporters. As essential legal transcribers, many are now facing increased costs for equipment, software, and supplies. These hikes are pushing court reporters to rethink budgets, consider fee adjustments, and find new strategies to stay competitive in a shifting economic landscape.
Court Reporter Payment Delays – What California Law Says and How to Respond When Agencies Stall
In the world of freelance court reporting, payment disputes are an all-too-common headache. One of the most frustrating scenarios is when a court reporting agency delays payment to the reporter because they themselves haven’t been paid by the attorney or law firm requesting the transcript. For years, this practice left reporters in financial limbo, despiteContinue reading “Court Reporter Payment Delays – What California Law Says and How to Respond When Agencies Stall”
The Rise of Private Gatekeepers in Freelance Court Reporting
Some freelance court reporters say Facebook job groups are being misused by “gatekeepers” who exclude others and give jobs to friends. These gatekeepers may also receive perks or higher-paying jobs from agencies in return. Reporters argue this favoritism is unethical—and possibly illegal. Job opportunities should be shared fairly, not brokered through backroom deals. The court reporting profession needs transparency, not cliques or hidden kickbacks.
Inside the Mind of a Court Reporter – Between Transcripts and Grocery Lists
While attorneys argue and witnesses testify, court reporters are silently working magic—capturing every word, even as their minds drift to dinner plans or dog cuddles. We may not always be mentally present, but the record is. Opinions? We keep those to ourselves. Our focus isn’t on the drama unfolding—it’s on the speed, clarity, and precision of speech. The result? A flawless transcript, every time.
Freelance vs. Official Court Reporting – Weighing the Pros and Cons for Your Career Path
Freelance court reporting offers freedom, flexibility, and the potential for high earnings—but it comes with uncertainty, no benefits, and a constant hustle. Official positions provide stability, a steady paycheck, and valuable perks like insurance and retirement, though the structure can feel rigid and depends heavily on the judge. Your choice depends on your lifestyle, risk tolerance, and what you value more: independence or security.
Antitrust Concerns in Court Reporting and Navigating the Legal Landscape
Introduction Antitrust laws exist to ensure fair competition in the marketplace. While court reporting may not seem like a typical industry subject to antitrust scrutiny, it is not exempt from these legal principles. Recent discussions within professional associations, such as the Texas Court Reporters Association (TEXDRA), highlight the importance of understanding what court reporters, includingContinue reading “Antitrust Concerns in Court Reporting and Navigating the Legal Landscape”
Steno Still Stands Strong
Verbatim court reporting relies on three methods: steno machine, steno mask, and AI/ASR. Only steno machine and mask writers are certified and legally accepted in over half the states. The steno machine remains the gold standard, offering unmatched accuracy and instant readback. AI/ASR, while emerging, lacks certification, reliability, and accountability—posing serious risks in legal settings where precision is non-negotiable. Certification must be required for all reporting methods.
A Crisis in the Courts – L.A. County’s Reporter Shortage, Jessner’s Controversial Order, and the Looming Threat of Jury Nullification
Los Angeles County is facing a legal crisis as Presiding Judge Jessner issues an order allowing electronic recordings in civil, family, and probate courts—directly violating California law. After the legislature rejected AB 662, which sought similar changes, Jessner acted unilaterally. Critics warn this judicial overreach undermines public trust and could spark jury nullification, with citizens questioning why they should follow laws judges themselves ignore.
“Why I Love Court Reporting” FB Group Celebrates a Decade of Dedication in the Court Reporters’ Community & Camaraderie
For ten years, the Why I Love Court Reporting Facebook group has fostered camaraderie, inspiration, and unwavering support for court reporters worldwide. With over 5,000 members, this thriving community celebrates the profession’s passion, perseverance, and purpose. As we mark this milestone, we honor the dedication of those who uphold justice with every keystroke. Here’s to a decade of dedication—and many more to come!
The Role of Court Reporters and the Limits of Interpreter Expectations
Court reporters ensure accurate legal records, but they are not responsible for providing interpreters with LiveNote or laptops. Interpreters must work from what they hear, not read, as real-time feeds are unedited drafts. If an interpreter requires accommodations, it is the responsibility of their agency, not the court reporter. Setting clear boundaries protects court reporters from undue burdens while maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings.
Building Strong Networks as a Court Reporter: Identifying People Who Will Advocate for You
Building strong professional networks is essential for court reporters. By observing how others behave, how they network, and what feedback they receive, you can identify those most likely to advocate for you. People who highlight others’ achievements, share opportunities, and offer support without expecting anything in return are key connections. Likewise, being a generous, supportive professional fosters reciprocal relationships that help propel your career forward.
Court Reporters Are The Most Advanced Professionals in Realtime Transcription
Court reporting isn’t old-fashioned—it’s the most advanced transcription method in existence. Digital recording takes us back 100 years, while AI struggles with accuracy. Court reporters, powered by cutting-edge steno CAT software like Eclipse Boost, harness AI to enhance speed and precision—without losing control. No machine can match our expertise, adaptability, or real-time accuracy. We’re not outdated—we’re indispensable. 💯 #CourtReporting #StenoTech
The Importance of Ergonomics and Professionalism for Court Reporters
For those who spend long hours reporting from home, investing in a high-quality chair is essential. I’ve had my Herman Miller Embody chair for about a decade, and I couldn’t report without it. Designed for long-term comfort and optimal posture, it provides the perfect balance of support and flexibility, reducing strain during marathon transcription sessions. If you’re looking for a game-changer in home office ergonomics, this chair is worth every penny.
Transcript Theft: The Silent Threat to Court Reporters
Court reporters are increasingly encountering attorneys who discuss “splitting costs” but ultimately share a single transcript instead of ordering their own. This practice impacts reporters’ earnings and devalues their work. To address this, reporters must clarify orders upfront, advocate for firm policies, and reinforce ethical standards. As the legal landscape evolves, standing firm on fair compensation and professional respect remains essential for the future of court reporting.
Taming the Tech Tyrant: Conquering the Chaos of Courtroom Correspondence
Is your inbox overflowing, distracting you, and slowing down your productivity? Court reporters deal with constant email communication, but without a system, it can become overwhelming. By adopting structured strategies—such as scheduled inbox management, the “Four Ds” decision-making method, and email automation tools—you can regain control. Improve efficiency, reduce stress, and turn your email from a burden into a productivity-boosting tool today!
Courtroom Champions – Crafting Resilience in a Rapidly Revolutionizing Realm
In a fast-changing legal landscape, court reporters must adapt to survive and thrive. By embracing technology, committing to continuous professional development, and upholding ethical standards, they can remain indispensable. As digital tools evolve, human expertise remains crucial for accuracy and nuance. This article explores strategies to build resilience, ensuring court reporters stay at the forefront of the profession in an increasingly complex and competitive world.
Fighting Like Hell to Save the Stenography Profession Through Innovation, Grit, and Perseverance
The stenography profession is at a crossroads, facing threats from AI and digital transcription. But history shows that industries on the brink can fight back. By embracing innovation, public awareness campaigns, high school outreach, and social media engagement, stenographers can reclaim their place as the gold standard in legal documentation. It’s time to fight like hell—because the future of stenography depends on it.
The Battle Between Humans and AI in Court Reporting
The battle between humans and AI in court reporting is intensifying as Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) technology advances. While ASR promises faster, cost-effective transcriptions, its current 76% accuracy rate still falls short in legal proceedings, where precision is critical. Human court reporters maintain an edge with their contextual understanding, adaptability, and ability to transcribe multiple speakers, ensuring accuracy that AI currently cannot match.
Digital Pay Parity A Pipe Dream of Unbalanced Benefit
Digital pay parity may seem like a solution, but it’s a false promise that upholds corporate greed while undermining human skill. Christopher Day of Stenonymous advocates for unionization to keep digital at bay, yet his vision still overlooks the irreplaceable expertise of real stenographers. True progress lies in recognizing the value of craftsmanship, not in embracing shortcuts that favor profits over people. The future is human, not digital.
The Importance of Allowing Full Interpretation in Legal Proceedings
In legal proceedings, allowing full interpretation ensures accuracy and clarity. When interpreters are not allowed to fully translate, gaps are created, making the court reporter’s job more difficult. Court reporters rely on complete translations to produce verbatim transcripts. Missing words or partial translations can lead to confusion and inaccuracies in the record, impacting the fairness and integrity of the legal process for all parties involved.
Denise A. Tugade’s Appointment to the Court Reporters Board is a Possible Threat to the Future of Court Reporting in California
Denise A. Tugade’s appointment to the California Court Reporters Board on February 11, 2025, raises serious concerns for court reporters. With deep ties to SEIU—known for allowing court reporter layoffs—and former Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, a proponent of replacing court reporters with automation, Tugade’s influence could further undermine the profession. Her appointment signals potential threats to job security and the integrity of legal transcripts in California courts.
The Digital Court Reporting Scam – How Aspiring Court Reporters Are Being Duped
Digital court reporting programs are misleading aspiring court reporters, especially in states like California, where digital recording of legal proceedings is illegal. Many students invest time and money in these courses, only to find out they do not lead to licensure. Universities continue to offer these programs for profit, despite their lack of credibility. Prospective students must research and choose accredited stenographic training instead.
SITC/Day Violates Louisiana Solicitation and Volunteer Laws, Again
Steno in the City is once again facing legal scrutiny for violating Louisiana’s solicitation and volunteer laws. Marketed as a professional development event, this for-profit venture misleads sponsors, vendors, and volunteers while improperly soliciting funds. By exploiting unpaid labor and misrepresenting financial contributions, Steno in the City risks legal consequences. Transparency, compliance, and ethical responsibility are essential to ensuring accountability in the court reporting industry.
The Many Reasons Court Reporters Love Their Profession
Court reporting is more than just a job—it’s a passion. From the rhythmic keystrokes of the stenograph to the thrill of capturing every word in high-stakes legal proceedings, court reporters thrive on accuracy, language, and the pursuit of truth. They witness justice unfold, document history in real time, and fight to preserve their profession’s integrity. Their dedication ensures the legal record remains precise and reliable.
Empowering Women in Court Reporting for Success and Fulfillment
Women in court reporting play a vital role in the legal system, bringing precision, adaptability, and expertise to the field. By building strong support networks, advocating for equal opportunities, and embracing technological advancements, they can achieve lasting success. With flexible career options and leadership opportunities, court reporting empowers women to thrive professionally while maintaining work-life balance, ensuring a more inclusive and dynamic future for the industry.
Success of a Court Reporter: Defining and Measuring Achievement
Success in court reporting comes in many forms—financial stability, professional influence, and personal fulfillment. Whether measured by certifications, income, client demand, leadership roles, or even luxury lifestyles like exotic cars and designer bags, success remains subjective. True excellence, however, lies in the quality of work produced. The real measure is not just perception but the accuracy, reliability, and impact a court reporter leaves behind.
Tip for Attorneys: Don’t Be Like Dennis—Plan Ahead and Order Your Court Reporter Early
Don’t be like Dennis—plan ahead when ordering a court reporter! Last-minute bookings can lead to stress, delays, and subpar transcripts, affecting your case and reputation. By scheduling early, you ensure availability, quality, and a smoother process. Avoid scrambling at the last minute, and give yourself the breathing room to focus on your case and other responsibilities. Proactive planning sets you up for success!
Attorneys: A Great Transcript Starts with YOU!
Attorneys play a crucial role in ensuring an accurate court transcript. By speaking clearly, marking exhibits properly, understanding turnaround times and costs, and providing spellings for unusual names or terms, attorneys can help court reporters create a flawless record. Treating court reporters as neutral professionals and being mindful of off-the-record conversations further contributes to maintaining a clear, reliable, and professional transcript. Collaboration leads to success!
The Importance of Maintaining a Poker Face as a Court Reporter
Court reporters play a vital role in legal proceedings, capturing verbatim transcripts while maintaining impartiality. A critical aspect of their professionalism is the ability to maintain a neutral, expressionless demeanor—often referred to as a “poker face.” This skill ensures they remain unbiased, avoid distractions, and uphold the integrity of the legal process, even when witnessing emotionally charged or controversial testimonies in the courtroom.
Handling Difficult Attorneys and Recovering from Stressful Jobs as a Court Reporter
Court reporting demands resilience, especially when faced with difficult attorneys and chaotic proceedings. Maintaining professionalism, setting firm boundaries, and ensuring a clear record are crucial, even when unappreciated. After a tough job, recovery is key—take time off, engage in stress-relieving activities, and connect with supportive colleagues. Remember, your work is essential, and tough days don’t define your value. You’ve got this!
The Pomodoro Technique for Court Reporters that Boosts Productivity and Reduces Fatigue
The Pomodoro Technique is a powerful time management method for court reporters, helping them maintain focus, reduce fatigue, and enhance accuracy. By working in structured 25-minute sessions with short breaks, court reporters can improve efficiency and prevent burnout. This approach also minimizes repetitive strain injuries and boosts motivation. Integrating Pomodoro cycles into daily workflows leads to sustained productivity, better work-life balance, and long-term career satisfaction.
Embracing Your Path to Success in Court Reporting
Court reporting demands precision, dedication, and continuous growth. Understanding your strengths—such as speed, accuracy, or technical expertise—helps shape your professional path. Setting SMART goals, investing in technology, and embracing continuous education are key to success. Challenges become opportunities when managed proactively, and mentorship strengthens the profession. By working with purpose and passion, court reporters create fulfilling careers while making a lasting impact on the legal field.
Stenos Fight for Justice, Not Just Survival
Stenographers are not just fighting for jobs—they are fighting for justice. While digital court reporting companies chase profit, stenographers uphold accuracy, integrity, and the legal system itself. Like a deer outrunning a lion, stenographers are driven by purpose, not just need. The battle against digital reporting is not just about technology—it’s about ensuring truth prevails. And in that fight, passion will always win.
Appeals and Court Reporters The Frustrations and Need for Change
The appeals process for court reporters is plagued by inefficiencies, unresponsiveness, and unnecessary burdens placed on responsible professionals. Instead of chasing down transcripts, each reporter should be required to upload their own work by a set deadline. A more structured, accountable system will ensure fairness, reduce delays, and maintain professionalism. It is time for change in Los Angeles County’s approach to handling appeals.
The Quoted Material Conundrum
The case involved 20 plaintiffs alleging medical injuries from toxic exposure, with a defense attorney struggling through medical terms. The jury endured a monotonous stipulation reading, prompting a juror to request a break. As the court reporter, I battled error-ridden documents and rapid speech. Despite frustrations, I ensured accuracy, corrected mispronunciations, and upheld proper punctuation—proving that expertise in this demanding trial was well worth the effort.
Understanding the Use of Ellipses in Legal Transcripts and When They Are Appropriate
Ellipses are valuable tools in legal writing, allowing for concise quotations while maintaining clarity. However, their misuse can lead to misrepresentation, misleading citations, or even judicial scrutiny. Judges emphasize the importance of transparency, particularly in legal briefs and jury instructions. Attorneys should ensure ellipses do not alter meaning, adhere to ethical standards, and provide full context to uphold credibility in legal discourse and maintain judicial integrity.
Who’s to Blame for the Decline of the Steno Profession? The Boys or the Girls?
The steno profession, once vital in legal and court reporting industries, has experienced significant decline. While men in leadership roles—agency owners, lawyers, and insurance companies—played a key part in driving down rates and prioritizing profits, female stenographers also share responsibility. Their failure to unite, advocate for fair compensation, and support each other allowed external pressures to erode the profession. Gender dynamics and internal division contributed to its downfall.
Building the Bridge to the Next Generation through Mentorship in Court Reporting
Mentorship plays a vital role in court reporting, bridging the gap between experienced professionals and the next generation. By sharing knowledge, skills, and ethical standards, seasoned court reporters ensure the longevity and success of the profession. True leadership in mentorship goes beyond technical training, offering emotional support and career guidance. Through dedication, court reporters empower their mentees to grow, fostering a stronger, more resilient future for the industry.
Court Reporters Protecting America’s Legal Record
Court reporters are the frontline defenders of justice, preserving legal records through a decentralized system that prevents manipulation, cyberattacks, or mass deletions. Unlike centralized digital recordings, which are vulnerable to hacking and censorship, court reporters maintain independent, tamper-proof transcripts. Their meticulous recordkeeping ensures the integrity of America’s legal history, safeguarding it from erasure and ensuring that justice remains permanently documented and protected for future generations.
Save What You Love
Stenography is at a crossroads, facing technological disruption, educational decline, and misconceptions about its relevance. However, innovation offers hope—new technology is emerging that integrates human expertise with automatic speech recognition, ensuring unmatched accuracy. To save stenography, we must revitalize training programs, challenge outdated perceptions, and embrace advancements that empower, rather than replace, skilled professionals. The future of this vital profession depends on it.
The Ethical Dilemma of “No Payment Until Settlement” in Court Reporting
Court reporting firms must uphold neutrality, yet some offer “no payment until settlement” to clients while demanding immediate payment from opponents. This raises ethical concerns and may violate California law. The Court Reporters Board of California warns that such practices compromise impartiality and could result in regulatory action. Maintaining fair payment policies is essential to preserving trust and integrity in legal proceedings.
A Transcript Without a Certified Court Reporter’s Signature: The Legal and Ethical Implications
A certified court reporter’s signature is the backbone of a legally sound transcript. Without it, the transcript lacks credibility and admissibility in court. Recently, I encountered a deposition labeled only as “The Deposition Officer,” a red flag indicating an uncertified digital reporter. This raises serious ethical and legal concerns, as uncertified transcripts can mislead courts, compromise due process, and undermine the integrity of judicial proceedings.
The Role of the “Deposition Officer” in Court Reporting
A Deposition Officer is a digital reporter in states like California and Texas, where the title court reporter is reserved for state-certified professionals. They record legal proceedings using digital technology and are referred to as “The Officer” in transcripts. While they perform essential court reporting duties, they operate under different regulations, ensuring compliance with state laws while capturing accurate legal records for depositions and other proceedings.
Ensuring the Integrity of Transcripts in Legal Proceedings
Certified deposition transcripts are essential for legal proceedings, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and admissibility in court. Only certified court reporters meet professional standards that protect the integrity of transcripts. Noncertified transcripts risk errors, security breaches, and legal challenges. Attorneys must verify certification and custody before using transcripts in litigation. Prioritizing certified court reporters safeguards legal outcomes and prevents complications arising from uncertified or outsourced transcription services.
Upholding Integrity in Court Reporting
The court reporting profession upholds justice through accuracy and integrity. However, recent concerns about intimidation and unethical practices threaten its credibility. Allegations against Shaunise Day and “Steno in the City” highlight the need for vigilance. Though not a court reporter, Day’s involvement in the industry raises ethical questions. The profession must stand firm, rejecting intimidation and advocating for transparency to protect its essential role in the legal system.
AB 711 A Missed Opportunity for Court Reporting Reform in California
AB 711 aims to address California’s court reporter shortage by requiring attorneys to disclose whether they will provide a certified shorthand reporter for hearings. However, industry experts argue the bill is a superficial fix, ignoring more effective solutions, like CoverCrow – a tech-driven platform that streamlines reporter scheduling and distributes court reporter resources more efficiently, eliminating the double appearances. True reform requires embracing innovation, expanding education programs, and fostering mentorship to sustain the profession.
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