Court reporting: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What court reporting is

A court reporter records spoken proceedings such as depositions and hearings word for word and produces a written transcript. Law offices and parties need one for depositions, hearings, arbitrations and other events where an accurate record matters.

Signs you need it

  • A deposition is scheduled and a written record is needed
  • An arbitration or hearing requires an official transcript
  • A lawyer needs a certified transcript for a filing
  • A witness is joining remotely and the record must still be accurate
  • You need a transcript of a recorded session
  • A deadline requires fast delivery of a transcript

What the pro does

  • Confirm the date, location, case name, parties and who will attend
  • Arrive early, set up equipment and check that everyone can be heard
  • Record the proceeding word for word, including questions, answers and objections
  • Mark exhibits as directed and note any off the record discussion
  • Prepare the transcript from the record and review it for accuracy
  • Certify the transcript and deliver it in the format requested

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • Length of the proceeding
  • Delivery speed, such as same day or standard
  • Whether a video recording is added
  • Whether the event is in person or remote
  • Number of copies and exhibits
  • Travel to the location
  • Whether real time display is needed

What a written quote should spell out

  • Whether attendance and transcript are priced separately
  • Delivery time and format of the transcript
  • Copies and exhibits included
  • Cancellation and rescheduling terms
  • Remote setup requirements

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Are you certified or licensed in this state?
  • What delivery times can you provide?
  • Can you supply real time text or video?
  • How do you handle multiple speakers?
  • Do you offer remote depositions?
  • How do you secure the transcript and recordings?
  • What formats do you deliver?

Red flags

  • A reporter who cannot show certification where required
  • No clear delivery time for the transcript
  • Unclear rules on who receives copies
  • A reporter who has a stake in the case
  • Poor equipment checks before starting

What you can do yourself

You can record your own meetings for personal use where the law allows, but a transcript for a court filing or deposition generally comes from a certified reporter. Ask the lawyer or court what format is needed. Confirm recording laws with a licensed attorney.

Licenses and permits

Court reporters are licensed or certified in many states, and requirements differ. Check the reporter's certification with the state board or court that credentials them.

Court reporting questions

Can I use a recording instead of a reporter?

Rules vary by proceeding. Ask the lawyer or court.

How long does a transcript take?

It depends on length and the delivery option. Confirm in writing.

Can a reporter attend remotely?

Many can. Confirm equipment and requirements in advance.

Pro reviewers

Pros who offer court reporting remotely can improve this guide, like Wikipedia. We check every edit before it goes live. Every approved edit is credited in the edit history and on the pro's profile.

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