Court Reporter Training: Telling Tales in Court

By Kelly Richardson
Career Colleges Columnist

Court reporters sit in on riveting court cases, closed-door conferences, and historic meetings, and record everything that's said on high-tech equipment. You don't need a law degree to be a part of the legal process. Just attend court reporter school and get a couple of years of focused training.

Inside the courtroom, court reporters are commonly referred to as the "Guardians of the Record." This is an indication of the importance of the position. If you're a fast thinker with an interest in legal proceedings, then you have the makings of a great court reporter. The National Court Reporters Association explains that the keys to success in this industry include polished skills, updates on the latest technology, and a firm understanding of what's going on in the profession.

Court Reporter School: Advanced Training

High Tech Tools. Court reporters receive training on the stenograph machine and the latest in voice activated systems. These are the tools you'll be using to take accurate records during trials and conferences.
Training Periods. Becoming a stenotypist, the most generalized level of court reporter, takes 33 months of training. For voice writers, the training is typically completed in one year.
Continuing Education. Court reporters who excel at their profession can graduate to management, administrative, and teaching positions.

Before you go off to court reporter school, you need to know a little bit about the current status of the profession. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a positive outlook for those looking to get started in the industry.

Criminal Justice: Real World Opportunities

Expected Salary. Court reporters had median annual earnings of $42,920 in May 2004, varying by training and experience level.
Job Outlook. Employment of court reporters is projected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through 2014.
Where the Jobs Are. About 60 percent of court reporters worked for state and local governments, court reporter agencies, or on a freelance basis.

Check out what court reporter training at a technical or business school in your area. There's simply no better way to begin your career.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in a variety of respected educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.

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