HI Court Reporter key terms

The practice of converting spoken testimony into text instantly through a stenotype machine and computer translation, allowing attorneys and the judge to read the record as proceedings occur.

A chorded keyboard device with a limited number of keys that records syllables phonetically, pressing multiple keys simultaneously to produce brief written forms for spoken sounds.

A single stroke or short combination of strokes assigned to a word, phrase, or common expression to increase speed, such as one stroke producing an entire party name.

Computer-aided transcription software that translates stenotype strokes into English text, manages dictionaries, and formats the transcript with page and line numbering.

A stored mapping in CAT software that links a specific stenotype stroke or stroke pattern to its intended English output, editable when translation errors appear.

A CAT software function that reverses a stroke back to its raw stenographic form so the reporter can correct a mistranslated word or redefine the stroke.

The post-hearing editing stage in which the reporter or a scopist reviews the computer-translated text against audio or notes, correcting mistranslations, punctuation, and speaker identification.

The final careful reading of a completed transcript to catch errors in spelling, punctuation, format, and speaker labels before certification and delivery.

The reporter's signed statement on the final page attesting that the transcript is a true and accurate record of the proceedings, made under penalty of law.

The standardized layout of a transcript, including 25-line numbered pages, title page, appearances, index, and exhibit markings, required for uniformity and citation.

The exchange of spoken remarks among judge, attorneys, witnesses, and others during a proceeding, which the reporter must capture accurately and attribute to the correct speaker.

The practice of labeling each portion of transcribed dialogue with the correct speaker designation so readers can follow who said what in the record.

A bracketed or parenthesized notation in a transcript describing non-verbal events, such as a pause, laughter, or the witness gesturing, rather than spoken words.

A judge's direction that discussion is not to be included in the official transcript; the reporter notes the on and off record points in the record.

A temporary suspension of proceedings ordered by the judge, which the reporter documents in the transcript along with the time court resumes.

The questioning of prospective jurors to determine qualification and impartiality, or in some contexts the examination of a witness's competence, both of which the reporter transcribes.

A private bench conference between the judge and attorneys outside the jury's hearing, often recorded or proffered, requiring careful handling by the reporter.

The judge's formal legal charge read to the jury before deliberations, frequently read from a prepared text and transcribed verbatim by the reporter.

Out-of-court sworn testimony taken by an attorney for discovery or trial use, recorded by a court reporter who administers the oath and produces a transcript.

The person, often a court reporter, authorized to administer oaths and record deposition testimony, with duties defined by court rules and statutes.

The act of formally swearing or affirming a witness to tell the truth before testimony, a core duty of the reporter that must be documented in the record.

The process of assigning identifying numbers or letters to documents and objects offered as evidence, with the reporter recording the marking and any objections.

The reporter's responsibility to safeguard exhibits and documents entrusted during proceedings and to handle their return or retention according to court rules.

The required period for keeping stenographic notes, audio, and transcripts, set by statute or court rule, after which materials may be destroyed.

A formal certification by a notary public, sometimes used for deposition transcripts or affidavits, verifying the identity of the person signing a document.

The time limit set by rule or agreement for delivering a completed transcript, such as the accelerated deadlines for appeals or expedited requests.

The state-issued authorization to practice shorthand reporting, typically requiring passage of a written and skills examination and meeting character and education requirements.

Mandatory ongoing training credits that licensed reporters must earn to renew their licenses, covering legal updates, ethics, and reporting technology.

The body of statutes, rules, and oversight authority governing court reporters, including licensing, discipline, and standards of conduct.

The ethical duty not to disclose information learned during proceedings, including sealed matters, grand jury testimony, and private party information, except as authorized by law.

Court sessions or records closed to the public by court order, which the reporter must protect from unauthorized disclosure while still producing the official record.

A situation where a reporter's personal, financial, or professional ties could bias their work, such as reporting for a relative or a firm involved in the case.

The ethical obligation to remain neutral and unbiased toward all parties, avoiding favoritism or advocacy while producing an accurate record.

A private communication with the judge or one party outside the presence of others, which a reporter must handle carefully to avoid ethical impropriety.

The fees a reporter charges for original transcripts, copies, expedited delivery, and related services, often subject to statutory limits or contractual agreement.

The stenographic practice of choosing briefs and strokes that do not clash with other dictionary entries, preventing ambiguous or incorrect translation.

A secondary sound recording made alongside stenographic notes to assist in verifying unclear testimony and resolving disputes about the record.