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Court Reporter
A court reporter is a professional who creates a word-for-word written record of everything said during a court proceeding.
What it actually is
The court reporter attends trials, hearings, depositions, and other legal proceedings, using a stenotype machine or audio recording to capture every spoken word, along with notations of who is speaking and any interruptions or objections. This record, called a transcript, becomes the official written account of the proceeding and is filed with the court clerk.
Why it matters in your case
If you need to appeal a decision or refer back to exactly what was said, the court reporter’s transcript is the only authoritative source. It also helps your lawyer prepare arguments by providing a precise record of testimony and rulings.
The common misunderstanding
Many people think a court reporter simply types what they hear, but they actually use a specialized shorthand machine and must certify the accuracy of the transcript. They also mark non-verbal events like gestures or exhibits, which are not always obvious from the typed words alone.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court, we hold court rules for 28 states and the federal courts word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state, procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.