Court Reporting

Court reporting is the verbatim transfer of speeches, proceedings, and other legal events to a written format. These reports are usually needed as legal evidence for trials or backup records for future reference.

Court reporting is done either by hand with a stenotype machine (a device similar to a typewriter that uses multiple keys to simulate a letter) or by voice with a stenomask (a device that converts spoken word into a stored format). This data is then stored on a digital medium.

In some cases voice writers can use speech recognition to extend their trade beyond court reporting and into the realm of closed caption.

Court reporting is done in places such as courtrooms, or legal offices, which usually demands business attire. Work hours depend on the nature of the court reporter's employment, though non-freelance court reporting usually requires a 40-hour work week.

The U.S. Department of Labor asserts that a 2- to 4-year college education is usually needed, and certification offers more opportunities. The following schools have degrees that will help you start a career in court reporting.