Differences Between a Court Reporter and a Transcriptionist
Every word spoken during legal proceedings must be captured and written down to create an accurate record. That’s what court reporters and legal transcriptionists do. Their jobs sound similar, but they serve distinct functions. Explore the difference between a court reporter and a transcriptionist so you know which one to hire.
What Is a Court Reporter?
Also known as stenographers, court reporters are the professionals who handle live legal proceedings. They capture every word spoken during trials, depositions, and hearings in real time using specialized equipment known as stenotype machines. Their swift fingers and keen ears ensure that no word slips through the cracks. Beyond transcribing, they may also administer oaths and mark exhibits to move the proceedings along.
What Is a Legal Transcriptionist?
Sometimes called court transcriptionists, legal transcriptionists enter the scene after the courtroom has emptied. They work with audio or video recordings of legal events, meticulously converting them into written documents. Without the pressure of real-time transcription, they can rewind and replay recordings to capture every detail with incredible accuracy. Their work is crucial for creating clear, concise records of depositions, client interviews, and other legal proceedings.
Legal Transcriptionists vs. Court Reporters
Here’s a side-by-side look at what sets these two roles apart:
- Timing: Court reporters transcribe live events as they happen, while legal transcriptionists work with recordings after the event has concluded.
- Tools of the trade: Court reporters use stenotype machines and real-time transcription software. Legal transcriptionists rely on standard keyboards, transcription software, and foot pedals to control audio and video playback.
- Training and certification: Becoming a court reporter requires extensive education and practice, including proficiency in stenography. Legal transcriptionists typically undergo training in transcription techniques and legal terminology, with certification being optional.
- Work environment: Court reporters are found in every court proceeding and deposition. Legal transcriptionists often have the flexibility to transcribe recorded materials remotely.
Choosing Between a Court Reporter and a Legal Transcriptionist
Deciding which professional to hire depends on your specific needs.
Opt for a court reporter if:
- You require real-time transcription during live legal proceedings.
- An official, immediate transcript is necessary for the record.
- You need a professional to administer oaths and manage exhibits.
Choose a legal transcriptionist if:
- You have recordings of proceedings that need to be transcribed after the fact.
- You’re operating on a tight budget (transcription services tend to cost less).
- You have flexibility regarding the transcript turnaround time.
Why Not Both?
In some cases, employing both professionals may be beneficial. A court reporter can provide immediate transcripts during a proceeding, while a legal transcriptionist can produce detailed, formatted documents from recordings for maximum accuracy and completeness.
Partner with Talty Court Reporters
At Talty Court Reporters, we utilize the latest technology to deliver the very best results in your legal case. Turn to us for top-quality court reporting and transcribing services, video and audio conferencing, remote depositions, and much more. For additional information about our services or to request a cost estimate, please contact us today.