A court reporter Boca Raton is actually a heck of a lot cooler than one might think.
Creating word-for-word transcriptions at trials, depositions, and other legal proceedings might seem like an easy feat to you.
Although recording information as a stenotype operator may appear like something so simple to those who aren’t experts in the field, it’s important to realize that these court stenographers happen to be one of the most invaluable roles that one can be placed within a courtroom.
In this post, we’re going to delve into just what the role of a court reporter Boca Raton entails.
We will discuss the necessary steps it will take in order for you to enter this thriving field.
By the end of this, you should be fully aware of the most vital information you can get your hands on when it comes to becoming a court reporter.
Are you ready to learn about capturing the words verbatim that are spoken by every single person during a court or deposition hearing?
Well, then, keep scrolling. We’re about to embark on our journey of discovering just what it takes to create word-for-word transcriptions at trials.
Court Reporter Boca Raton: An Impartial Field that Exists Within the Judicial Process
More commonly known as a court reporter or law reporter, this person holds the key (so-to-speak) to provide important information through transcriptions of court-worthy proceedings.
Although courts employ various types of reporters for their particular needs, the stenographer is an essential member within any courtroom.
If you’re looking to pursue a career as a court reporter Boca Raton or elsewhere, then here are the steps that you need to take in order to become certified.
Step 1: Earn a 4-Year Degree
Despite the fact that some states [such as Florida] do not require court reporters to possess a degree, those looking to become a certified court reporter Boca Raton should have at least a bachelor’s degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 70% of court reporters currently working hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
The specific major you choose will heavily impact your career options.
However, it is important to note that most court reporting programs do not require you to major in something specifically related to the field.
That being said, those who are interested in becoming certified court reporters Boca Raton choose majors such as English or Communications for their undergraduate degrees.
The Importance of Continuing Education
Although a degree is typically required to become a court reporter, those looking for entry-level roles should still consider taking classes to further their education.
The National Court Reporters Association suggests that you take at least two courses in English or Communications with an emphasis on writing.
The courses you take will greatly impact your work as an official court reporter Boca Raton.
With this information in mind, you should prepare yourself for classes that will introduce you to the basics of court reporting such as legal terminology and medical terminology.
Here, you can learn all about how each word is pronounced and exactly how it is supposed to look on paper when it is written.
Step 2: Take the TRS Exam
Ever since the passage of the Uniform Certifying Exam Act, court reporters must take a Certification Testing Service (CTS) exam in order to become certified.
Although you can take this exam as an individual person, most states require that you become an employee within your state’s judicial system before you can take this exam.
When becoming an employee, you will also have to pay a $150 application fee plus $10 for each application and retest administered.
Step 3: Study For The Exam
There are two ways that one can prepare for the certification exam: either through self-study or through classroom training.
Step 4: Apply for a Position
With an undergrad degree in hand and enough preparation for the exam, you are nearly ready to throw your hat into the ring of becoming a court reporter Boca Raton as you apply for positions within the judicial system.
Step 5: Complete The Job Application Process
According to the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), hiring requirements vary depending upon what state you go through.
Some will ask that you submit an application as well as a cover letter along with your official transcript from your school.
You will also need to attach any certificates, licenses, or degrees that can prove your eligibility.
Step 6: Pass a Background Check
Based on the NCRA, each state has their own set of procedures for court reporters as they move along the application process.
Most states require that you submit to a criminal background check and complete an employment history verification.
In addition, many states require that you pass a drug screening and pay for your own criminal background check.
Step 7: Go Through an Interview Process with Other Reporters/Judges/Attorneys/Judges’ Assistants, Etc.
With this in mind, you should expect to go through an interview process of some sort as you progress with the application process.
Step 8: Pass a Certification Test
To become certified, you will have to sit for the Uniform Certified Review Examination (UCRX).
Additionally, this exam is a pass or fail. If you perform poorly on the test, you will be issued a D.
Step 9: Get a Job at the Courthouse/District Court/State Court/Federal Court Complex
Many states require that you be applied to work for them as an official court reporter and begin employment with them as soon as your application has been approved.
However, there is no set date in which an official court reporter must take the exam.
Step 10: Get Your Foot in the Door
All in all, this process is a long and arduous one but it is worth it to get your foot in the door.
Final Word
As you can see, many steps have to be taken before one can even consider becoming a court reporter or even looking into becoming a court reporter Boca Raton.
This includes obtaining an undergrad degree, learning how to type as fast as you can talk (or faster), and taking a national certification test.
However, all of this work is worth it when you realize that your job will be very rewarding both financially and emotionally.
