Four Tips for Becoming a Court Reporter?

Answer 1

When becoming a court reporter, you want to make sure that you’re following all the proper procedures for getting your education and license. This way you’ll be able to find the best court reporting jobs out there.

1. Look for an accredited program. If you want to become a court reporter, you should look for an education program that is approved by the National Court Reporters Association. Some people will only be willing to hire people who are educated by these approved programs. They might cost more than an unapproved program, but they are more legitimate.

2. Find out what is required by your state law. Some states require you to get a license to begin your career as a court reporter. This would require students to take a test to prove they are qualified upon graduation from their career program. The skills you would need for a test like this vary. You’ll obviously need quick and accurate transcribing skills. On top of this, you’ll need spelling and grammar skills, because a court reporter who can’t properly type or spell is a waste of time in a courtroom environment.

3. Get your other certifications. It will never hurt your resume to have additional skills and certifications to back up the education and work experience you already have. There are a number of different levels of reporter certifications. You can also receive different broadcast certifications for the hearing impaired. You can also become a certified electronic court reporter if you’ve completed your education and have two years of court reporting experience. You’ll have to take a test to receive this certification as well.

4. Know your employment opportunities. Court reporting is more than just reporting in the court room. Lots of opportunities are available to a person with court reporting skill set. Broadcast captioning and web casting reporting are up and coming ways for those interested in court reporting to make money. Also, don’t be afraid to use the resources provided by your education or the NCRA to help you find potential employment opportunities.