What do court reporters do?  

Court reporters write down everything people say during court cases, hearings, and legal meetings. They use a special typing machine or a voice system to make sure every word is correct and saved. Court reporters also help judges and lawyers by making clear written records called transcripts. These records are used later if someone needs to review what happened in court, so the transcript must match the spoken words exactly. 

What does a typical day look like in this job? 

A court reporter may spend the day sitting in court while people talk, argue, or give answers. The reporter listens very closely and types everything that is said, sometimes for many hours. After court, they often turn their notes into written transcripts. Some reporters work in one courthouse, while others travel to different places for depositions, which are formal interviews where witnesses answer questions under oath outside of a courtroom. Freelance court reporters may work different hours each day. 

What skills or abilities are important for this job? 

Court reporters must type very fast and listen very carefully at the same time. They need to have a strong focus so they do not miss words, even when people talk quickly or speak softly. They also need to have good spelling skills and must stay composed under pressure. Reporters must be careful and fair, because their work is used in real legal cases. 

What kind of education, certification, or training is required? 

Most court reporters go to special schools where they learn stenography or voice writing. After training, reporters who want to work in Arizona courts must become certified by the state, to show they can meet speed and accuracy rules. Arizona has the Arizona Board of Certified Reporters that sets the rules and tests reporters. Some court reporters also earn extra certificates to help them get more jobs. Ongoing learning is often required to stay certified. 

What is the most challenging part about this job? 

As a court reporter, it can be difficult to keep up when people talk fast, interrupt each other, or use complex legal words. Reporters must get everything correct, even when they are tired. They cannot ask people to repeat things often. Another challenge can be working long days or finishing transcripts quickly. Court reporters may feel pressure because courts and lawyers depend on their work being done on time, and certain deadlines may be tight. 

How much do court reporters get paid in Arizona? 

To view recent information regarding salaries and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.