Texas is not confused about digital reporting — only the vendors are. Esquire, U.S. Legal, and Veritext recast a business model as a legal right, insisting courts ignore reliability gaps, nonexistent licensure, and the safeguards built directly into Rule 203.6. The trial court didn’t err; it exercised discretion. Corporate convenience is not access to justice, and marketing cannot replace a certified, accountable record.
Tag Archives: Esquire
Free Roughs, Hidden Costs – How AI Transcription Is Quietly Rewriting the Legal Record
Kerala is openly mandating AI transcription in every courtroom. In the U.S., the same shift is happening quietly. Esquire and Veritext now hand out free AI rough drafts, reshaping transcript control through corporate platforms — while some LA Superior Court judges secretly use machine drafts during remote hearings. Policy, business, and judicial habit are converging — outside public view.
The CA Law Has Changed – Freelancers Now Have Legal Protection — Even If Agencies Don’t Know It Yet
California’s new Freelance Worker Protection Act (SB 988) is in effect, but many agencies are still unaware they’re breaking the law. Reporters can protect themselves through education and documentation—adding FWPA clauses to rate sheets, email signatures, and job confirmations. Timely payment is now required, and retaliation for collection efforts is prohibited. Knowledge is power—spread awareness and stand firm.
The Era of Aggregation – Lexitas, Veritext, Magna and Others Consolidating the Court Reporting Industry
The court reporting industry is undergoing rapid consolidation as giants like Lexitas, Veritext, Esquire, and Magna absorb smaller firms nationwide. While some see opportunity in acquisition, others are doubling down on independence. This article explores who’s buying, what they’re looking for, and how small agencies can survive—or sell—on their own terms.
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.
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