Replacing a court reporter isn’t just a staffing issue—it’s a silent crisis. With veteran reporters retiring, mentoring gaps widening, and agencies scrambling to cover jobs, the true cost of turnover is mounting: lost trust, delayed justice, and record integrity at risk. Court reporters aren’t interchangeable. They’re essential. Until we start treating them that way, the system will keep bleeding talent—and accuracy.
Tag Archives: digital court reporter
A Victory for Nevada Court Reporters: Senate Bill 191 Signed, Rate Increases Effective January 2026
Nevada court reporters just won big—Governor Lombardo signed a rate increase into law, effective January 1, 2026. This echoes California’s 2021 rate hike from $3.00 to $3.99/page and signals rising recognition of our profession. Freelancers: This is your win, too. Celebrate with NVCRA this Saturday at Café du Central and get ready for what’s next.
Why Save Steno?
Stenographers aren’t relics—they’re the guardians of the record. In courtrooms where every word matters, only a trained human can ensure accuracy, context, and integrity. When we replace steno with machines, we invite errors, mistrials, and lost justice. This isn’t about resisting technology. It’s about protecting due process. Save steno—because once it’s gone, you won’t realize what you’ve lost until it’s too late.
When the Record Breaks – A Deposition Disaster That Proves Why Humans Beat Machines
During a deposition, an attorney slammed the table in frustration—causing a digital “court reporter” to lose a large portion of the testimony due to equipment failure. Unlike certified stenographers, machines can’t adapt in real time or ensure the integrity of the record. This incident is a stark reminder: when accuracy matters, only a trained, licensed court reporter can truly safeguard the legal record.
When AI Enters the Deposition Room – The Legal and Ethical Minefield of Unauthorized Recordings
Attorneys are increasingly attempting to use AI tools like Fireflies.ai to record and transcribe depositions—without proper authorization. These tools threaten confidentiality, compromise the integrity of the official record, and undermine the role of certified court reporters. Reporters must stand firm: unauthorized recording is not permitted. If challenged, document the exchange, contact your agency, and remember—you are the official record, and your judgment matters.
Protected: The Booth, the Database, and the Backdoor – How ILCRA’s Free Table at a For-Profit Event May Have Compromised Member Data
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
AI Summaries in Litigation – Efficiency or a Lawsuit Waiting to Happen?
An AI-generated deposition summary missed a crucial medical statement about future surgery, leading an insurance company to undervalue a case—and a jury later awarded millions over policy limits. Now the question is: Who’s liable? The law firm? The AI vendor? Or the court reporting agency that sold the product? As AI floods legal workflows, expect a wave of litigation over errors that never should’ve been automated.
Why Digital Recorders Are Not Court Reporters—And Why That Matters in California
Digital “reporters” are not licensed court reporters—and in California, their use is illegal in most court proceedings. Attorneys cannot stipulate around the law or sidestep due process. When the record is flawed, justice is compromised. A certified shorthand reporter (CSR) is not optional—it’s essential. Don’t be misled: replacing a stenographer with a recorder isn’t innovation. It’s a legal and ethical liability.
Are Paralegals Being Automated Out of the Legal Workforce? A Critical Look at Lexitas’ New AI Tool
Lexitas’ new AI tool, Deposition Insights+, claims to streamline litigation prep—but at what cost? By automating key tasks traditionally handled by paralegals and junior attorneys, this technology risks replacing human insight with algorithmic shortcuts. Legal professionals must ask: Are we empowering teams, or eroding jobs and skills? Efficiency shouldn’t come at the expense of accuracy—or accountability. The legal industry must tread carefully.
The High Cost of Convenience – How Digital Court Reporting Risks Destroying the Profession It Claims to Modernize
As court reporting agencies rush to adopt AI and digital tools, they risk undermining the very profession they rely on. Accuracy, ethics, and human expertise are being sacrificed for speed and cost. Agencies must choose: innovate with reporters, or replace them entirely—and suffer the consequences. The legal system deserves better than a transcript powered by hope and algorithms.
Why Whisper Can’t Replace Court Reporters in the U.S. Legal System
Canada’s Legislative Assembly proved AI like Whisper can assist—but not replace—human editors. Meanwhile, U.S. courts risk due process by adopting ASR without oversight. Speaker errors, misattribution, and data risks abound. Justice demands more than a “good enough” transcript. We must follow Canada’s lead: human-led, AI-assisted. The record—and constitutional rights—depend on it.
Not Optional – Why Stenographers Are Essential to the Constitution and Your Freedom
Court reporters aren’t just transcribers—they’re constitutional safeguards. Without a certified human creating the record, due process collapses. No accurate transcript means no appeal, no accountability, no justice. Stenographers ensure the truth is preserved, rights are protected, and freedom is upheld. Replacing them with machines doesn’t save money—it erodes democracy. Court reporters are the quiet guardians of liberty. Lose them, and you lose the record that protects us all.
“Digital Gatekeeping: How Facebook Job Boards Are Quietly Controlling Access to Court Reporting Jobs—and Why It May Be Illegal”
Facebook job boards for court reporters are becoming digital gatekeeping machines—run by fellow CSRs who block access to jobs without cause. When licensed professionals are excluded from critical work opportunities by biased moderators, it’s not just unethical—it may be a violation of CRB standards and antitrust laws. It’s time to expose the harm and demand oversight.
Why Human Stenographers Still Outperform AI in the “Cocktail Party” Problem—and Always Will in Legal Proceedings
AI still can’t match human stenographers—especially in legal settings. From overlapping speech and accents to emotional testimony, the “cocktail party problem” is far from solved. Only a certified court reporter can deliver 99% accuracy, real-time clarification, and a legally admissible record. Don’t fall for the hype. Humans are still the gold standard.
“Be the Voice That Speaks for Me in Court”: The Sacred Power of Truth in a Profession Gone Quiet
When truth becomes dangerous, speaking out isn’t just brave—it’s sacred. A fellow reporter shared a prayer: “O Holy Spirit, be the Voice that speaks for me in court.” In a profession silenced by fear and gatekeeping, that voice matters more than ever. We don’t need permission to speak truth—we need conviction. Let integrity rise louder than intimidation.
Why Court Reporters Don’t Owe Agencies Loyalty—And Why That’s Okay
In a post-COVID world, court reporters are redefining their roles—not as agency staff, but as independent professionals. Remote work isn’t laziness; it’s survival. Agencies profiting off outdated loyalty narratives forget that freelancers have overhead, choices, and value. We’re not driving two hours for 16 pages anymore—and we’re done apologizing for it. The industry has changed. We adapted. Time for everyone else to catch up.
When Depositions Had Coffee Breaks – A Court Reporter’s Call to Action
There was a time when depositions had structure, civility, and coffee breaks. Now, reporters face 300-page days with no breaks, no boundaries, and inhuman turnaround times. We didn’t lose this all at once—it slipped away because no one said “no.” It’s time to draw the line. For our health, our quality, and the future of court reporting. We either reclaim our power—or watch it disappear for good.
Leadership in the Eye of the Storm
When the storm is coming and no one’s listening, that’s when true leadership begins.
In a dream, I saw tornadoes forming—and I was the only one who ran for shelter. That dream mirrors the reality of court reporting today. AI, ASR, and digital threats are merging—and too many are still sipping coffee. Here’s what it means to lead in the eye of the storm.
The Ethical Crossroads of Technology in Law – Why Attorneys Must Defend Human Court Reporters
Attorneys have an ethical obligation to verify the integrity of the record. Yet ASR transcripts, often created without disclosure or certification, are slipping into legal proceedings unchecked. With error rates nearing 30%, no human accountability, and real risks to confidentiality, lawyers must take a stand. Certified human stenographers remain the gold standard. Accept no substitutes—your client’s rights may depend on it.
When Advocacy Turns Hostile – A Call for Integrity in Court Reporting
When advocacy turns hostile, professionalism suffers. In the court reporting world, performative leadership and public bullying are replacing ethics and collaboration. This anonymous essay calls for a return to integrity — where disagreement isn’t met with defamation, and leadership doesn’t rely on intimidation. The future of steno depends not just on who speaks, but how we choose to lead.
AI Might Be Cheaper—But It’s Gutting the Court Reporting Pipeline
Courtrooms aren’t podcasts—and AI isn’t ready to replace human court reporters. What’s at stake isn’t just jobs, but an entire pipeline: schools, certification boards, machine makers, and trained professionals. Once that system collapses, it’s gone. If we cut too deep, there will be no one left when AI fails. Choose accuracy. Choose humans. Choose us—while you still can.
Ethical Red Flags – Are Attorneys Violating Rules of Professional Conduct by Retaliating Against Court Reporters?
Some plaintiff attorneys are retaliating against court reporters by replacing them with uncertified digital alternatives—not out of necessity, but spite. In doing so, they may be violating ethical rules around competence, candor, and fairness. Using uncertified transcripts can mislead the court, harm clients, and erode due process. It’s not just bad judgment—it may be professional misconduct.
The Backfire of the Stop the SoCal Stip Movement – How a Campaign to Protect Court Reporting Accelerated Its Threat
The Stop the SoCal Stip movement was meant to protect court reporters—but instead, it triggered resentment among attorneys that’s now fueling our replacement. What began as a legal ethics stand has been twisted into a narrative of greed. The result? Retaliation via digital recording and ASR. If we don’t reclaim the narrative, the gold standard of stenography could disappear.
Court Reporting at a Crossroads – How to Win the Battle for the Future of Justice
Court reporting isn’t dying—it’s being hijacked. Big-box firms are replacing certified professionals with offshore labor and uncertified notaries, bypassing due process and threatening our existence. But we hold the leverage: laws, credentials, and the truth. If we don’t act now, we face extinction. If we rise, we reclaim our rightful place at the top. The clock is ticking—our profession depends on it.
The Subtle Power of a Word – Why ASR Can’t Replace Human Court Reporters
One wrong word — like “sale” instead of “cell” — can alter the facts. ASR doesn’t understand the difference, and neither did my scopist, because they weren’t a trained court reporter. In legal proceedings, every word matters. Court reporters aren’t just typists — we are the responsible charge, the last line of defense for truth and accuracy in the record.
Empires Built on Convenience – The Parallel Collapse of Big Pharma and Court Reporting
The collapse of Big Pharma’s credibility mirrors the slow unraveling of the court reporting profession. Both industries ignored warnings from within, replaced professionals with profit-driven shortcuts, and now face a reckoning. As automated systems fail to protect the integrity of legal records, certified court reporters must reclaim their role as the Responsible Charge—before our justice system loses something it can’t afford: the truth.
The Case for Court Reporter Cost Transparency and Industry Reform
Attorneys are furious over rising court reporting costs—but the truth is, reporters aren’t the ones profiting. Agencies are marking up per diems by 100–200%, keeping fees for add-ons like exhibits and digital access, while reporters see less than half. It’s time for legislative reform, transparency, and a fair compensation model that protects the profession—and restores integrity to the legal record.
Court Reporting – The Delta Force of Professions
Court reporting school has a dropout rate as high as Delta Force selection—only 5 to 10% make it through. We’re not just typists; we’re elite professionals with real-time mental endurance and precision under pressure. Like Tier One operators, we train for years to master a high-stakes craft. We are the Responsible Charge of the official record—and no machine can replace that.
How Court Reporting Can Survive and Thrive in the Age of AI and ASR
Court reporting isn’t just transcription — it’s the human backbone of justice. Whether using a steno machine or voice mask, stenographers capture the spoken word in real time to create certified, accurate records that AI simply can’t replicate. In the face of automation, our unity, skill, and accountability will define our survival. We aren’t obsolete — we’re indispensable. And now is the time to prove it.
Why AAERT-Certified Digital Reporters Are Not the Answer to the Court Reporter Crisis
Digital reporters certified by AAERT are not equivalent to licensed court reporters. They don’t write realtime, certify records on the spot, or meet the legal standards required in high-stakes proceedings. While digital recording may seem like a quick fix for shortages, it risks long-term damage to the integrity of the record. The solution isn’t substitution—it’s investment in the gold-standard profession that’s already working.
The Scopist Crisis – A Silent Threat to the Integrity of Court Reporting
The scopist shortage is becoming a hidden crisis in court reporting. Too many unqualified applicants—often unfamiliar with software like StenoCat32—are delivering error-filled transcripts that compromise accuracy and trust. As court reporters face mounting pressure, it’s time to demand better training, certification, and collaboration from those supporting our record.
When “No Options” Isn’t an Option – The Quiet Collapse of Court Reporting in West Texas
In West Texas, court reporters are disappearing — and judges are turning to digital recording as a last resort. One court has had zero applicants and is now speaking with Verbatim. This isn’t about convenience; it’s a collapse. Melissa’s story reveals the human toll of inaction and the urgent need to protect the integrity of our record. “No options” is not an excuse. It’s a wake-up call.
ASR in Court Reporting – Tool, Threat, or Transformation?
As court reporting faces increasing pressure from digital disruption, the debate over ASR (Automatic Speech Recognition) intensifies. Can it be used responsibly — or does its adoption spell the end of human-led recordkeeping? This article explores the nuanced question: If ASR is wielded by a trained, licensed stenographer, does it become a tool — or remain a threat? The future of our profession may hinge on the answer.
When a State Association Leaves the State – Why ILCRA’s Move to Florida Is a Red Flag for Court Reporters Everywhere
Illinois—home to one of the top four court reporting populations in the U.S.—just saw its association headquarters moved to Florida, a state that has eliminated licensing and gone digital. This alarming relocation by ILCRA raises serious concerns about transparency, oversight, and the future of stenography. Why outsource leadership to a state that no longer values licensed court reporters? Members must demand accountability now.
Crushing it with Carol!
Carol Reed Naughton’s victory in the NCRA VP race is more than a win—it’s a rejection of toxic leadership. In a profession where integrity is often tested, the community chose accountability over ambition, process over performance. This result proves that even in environments where manipulation can thrive, truth still resonates. For every steno who values ethics over ego—this moment is yours.
“Five-Oh-Two” & The Invisible Danger in ASR Court Transcripts
ASR may produce clean-looking transcripts, but it lacks the human judgment needed to capture meaning, nuance, and legal context. In court, where every word matters, even subtle misinterpretations can distort the record and impact outcomes. Accuracy isn’t just about words—it’s about understanding. That’s why certified court reporters remain essential in preserving the integrity of the legal process.
Voice Steno Vs Machine Steno
What truly sets court reporters apart isn’t the tool—steno machine or voice—but the human responsibility behind the record. Voice writers aren’t the enemy; AI is. Dividing ourselves by modality only weakens our profession. If we don’t expand and unify, we risk being replaced. NCRA must evolve. The future belongs to professionals—machine or voice—who uphold accuracy, ethics, and the integrity of the record.
A Strategic Bypass or a Pattern of Evasion? A Deeper Look at Margary Rogers’ Candidacy for NCRA Vice President
Margary Rogers bypassed the official Nominating Committee process to run for NCRA Vice President—a move she admitted was “strategic.” But her track record tells a deeper story: financial mismanagement, declining membership, and unresolved debts during her tenure at MCRA. Meanwhile, Carol Reed Naughton followed the proper process, demonstrated steady leadership, and earned her nomination. This vote isn’t just about preference—it’s about protecting the integrity of our profession.
When Leadership Becomes a Target – Clarifying the Role of Advocacy and the NCSA Chair
Sponsoring a bylaw amendment isn’t a “conflict”—it’s democratic participation. A recent blog post attacks the NCSA Chair for doing exactly what leaders should: advocating transparently and encouraging voter engagement. This rebuttal sets the record straight, dismantling the emotional rhetoric and reminding the profession that anonymous accusations without substance aren’t reform—they’re distraction. Leadership requires integrity. Criticism should at least meet the same standard.
The Truth Hurts, Especially on Event Day
When truth disrupts the room, it’s doing its job. The timing of my article was intentional—not out of malice, but out of duty to transparency. If the reaction at that event was outrage, maybe it’s not the message but the mirror it held up. Criticism isn’t cruelty. Leadership requires scrutiny. If that stings, ask why—and who benefits from your silence.
When Campaign Emails Cross the Line – A Closer Look at the NCRA Vice President Race
Margary Rogers’ campaign email for NCRA Vice President sparked concern for its tone, tactics, and alignment. While promoting experience and leadership, the message included subtle jabs at opponents and leaned heavily on personal branding. With the profession at a crossroads, members should expect professionalism over promotion, and clarity over charisma. This election is about trust, not just titles—and our standards should reflect that.
Save Steno Now, or Lose It Forever – Why Court Reporters Can’t Be Replaced by AI
Court reporting isn’t dying—it’s evolving. With overflowing steno schools, waitlists, and voicewriters accelerating training, we’re meeting demand. The real threat isn’t a shortage—it’s premature replacement by AI. If we let this profession collapse, we lose the infrastructure that guarantees accuracy in our justice system. If you want us tomorrow, you must choose to support us today—before it’s too late.
When Integrity Meets Intimidation – The Case of the Fearless Stenographers Conference
When accountability meets resistance, the truth becomes a threat. What began as a professional event—The Fearless Stenographers Conference—unraveled into a troubling case of legal noncompliance, financial secrecy, and online retaliation. This investigation sheds light on how one brand, led by Shaunise Day, crossed ethical and legal lines—and how silence, deflection, and intimidation replaced transparency when questions finally started to surface.
California’s Anti-SLAPP Law – Shielding Whistleblowers from Legal Intimidation
As a seasoned civil trial reporter, I’ve covered numerous Anti-SLAPP motions in California—where courts take free speech seriously. The recent trademark complaint against my blog isn’t about brand confusion; it’s about silencing criticism. California’s Anti-SLAPP law exists for exactly this reason: to protect public discourse from legal intimidation. I’m exercising my right to speak honestly—and I won’t be bullied into silence.
The SITC Events – Uncovering the Financials, the Fallout, and the Mob Response
At first glance, The Fearless Stenographers Conference seemed like a triumph for the court reporting community. But behind the scenes, it exposed a troubling pattern of financial opacity, legal noncompliance, and retaliatory behavior. When legitimate concerns were raised, Shaunise Day didn’t offer transparency—she launched a campaign of intimidation. This is not just a story about mismanagement. It’s a warning about what happens when ego overrides accountability.
Should Reporters Be Rallying Behind Shaunise Day?
Shaunise Day has positioned herself as a voice within the court reporting profession—despite never completing certification or working as a licensed reporter. While she promotes events and media under the banner of advocacy, many professionals question her credibility and qualifications. In a field defined by precision and licensure, critics argue that leadership should come from those who’ve earned their place within the industry through experience and certification.
Whistleblowers, Retaliation, and the Dark Reality of Gang Stalking
Why Is She Still Here?
She’s still here because branding outshines accountability. Without credentials, dodging criticism, and riding on polished marketing, her influence persists. Silence from the community, fear of backlash, and financial incentives keep the cycle going. But that grip loosens when we speak up, ask tough questions, and elevate real expertise. The power is ours—if we stop rewarding image and start demanding integrity in court reporting.
When Critique Gets Censored – My Experience With a Trademark Complaint
After receiving a trademark complaint from the founder of Steno In The City, I’m speaking out. This isn’t about infringement — it’s about silencing criticism. I’ve used the name fairly, for commentary and accountability. When brand protection takes priority over ethical responsibility, we have to ask: who’s being protected, and who’s being exploited? This is my experience, and why I won’t stay silent.
A Day Without a Court Reporter – A Legal System on the Brink
A world without court reporters isn’t silent—it’s lawless. When stenographers vanish, so does the integrity of our legal system. Digital recorders can’t replace human judgment, accountability, or accuracy. Justice slows, appeals collapse, and costs soar. Once institutional knowledge is gone, it’s gone for good. This isn’t a forecast—it’s already happening. And unless we act now, there’s no undoing the damage.
STENOIMPERIUM 