Legal transcriptionists create a written transcript of all recorded testimony.
Legal transcriptionists, or court reporters, are responsible for creating word-for-word transcripts of legal proceedings and court testimony. These written transcripts must be be accurate and complete, as they are often used as legal proof when needed. Legal transcriptionists may also be asked to search through recorded information and organize testimony for accuracy.
Stenography
One method of legal transcription is stenography, in which transcriptionists use a machine to record all dialogue spoken in official proceedings. Transcriptionists, or stenographers, record a sequence of letters that represent words, sounds and phrases. These letters are recorded, translated and displayed as text. Legal transcriptionists must develop a dictionary that is used to translate their symbols, letters and codes into written text, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Stenographers are responsible for editing their translations to ensure all documents contain proper grammar.
Electronic Reporting
Electronic reporting is another method of legal transcription. In electronic reporting, transcriptionists use audio equipment to document court proceedings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states, "The court reporter monitors the process, takes notes to identify speakers, and listens to the recording to ensure its clarity and quality." Legal transcriptionists may use digital equipment or tape recorders to record judicial proceedings. Transcriptionists are commonly required to translate the recorded proceeding into a written transcript. Electronic reporters must make sure the recorded testimony is audible.
Voice Writing
A third type of legal transcription is voice writing in which the transcriptionist speaks straight into a handheld mask that contains a microphone. During a legal proceeding, the transcriptionist repeats the testimony into the microphone. The mask does not allow anyone to hear the testimony being repeated. The transcriptionist must record all emotional reactions and hand gestures given during testimony. He will then prepare written transcripts from the recordings.
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