AB 711 Passed—But Is It Really a Win? Why This New Law Signals the Next Phase in the Elimination of Certified Court Reporters

When a judge tells attorneys they “don’t need a court reporter”—despite one being present and assigned—the threat to justice becomes undeniable. AB 711 enables this erosion, shifting the burden of preserving the record onto attorneys while courts quietly sideline certified reporters. The result? Trials with no transcript, no appeal, and no accountability. This isn’t modernization. It’s judicial overreach.

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.