Court Reporter Jobs in 2023

This position can be found in both of the court districts and involves highly responsible supervisory, technical, and clerical work. Supervisory duties are performed either in the St. Thomas or St. Croix court locations. Work includes attending sittings of the court, capturing a verbatim record of court proceedings using a stenograph machine and preparing and providing transcripts in accordance with the Virgin Islands code, rules of court, opinions, legal guidelines and policies. The court reporter exercises considerable independent judgment in all aspects of job performance. Work is reviewed and evaluated by any judge and the Court Services Administrator.

(Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties that may be performed.)

• Schedules, assigns, oversees, and reviews the work of staff engaged in providing verbatim recordings of court proceedings and transcript services; provides staff training and assistance; conducts performance evaluations; determines priorities and plans office work; establishes and maintains office procedures; makes recommendations on the development of policies and standards; acts as liaison with other operating units, agencies, and outside officials regarding unit policies and procedures; prepares reports and correspondence; performs the duties of a Court Reporter; recruits per diem staff when necessary and approves payments for their services; prepares verbatim transcripts and supervises the production of transcripts by staff; maintains office supplies and equipment; supervises the preparation and delivery of Appellate transcripts; supervises the storage and retrieval of records.
• Makes and preserves a verbatim record of court proceedings using a stenograph machine, which may include use of computer-aided transcription software.
• Sets up and dismantles stenographic machine and other related equipment in the courtroom; maintains a complete verbatim record related to the proceedings, including but not limited to identifying participants by name, marking and identifying exhibits, noting any "off the record" discussions allowed, objections, bench or side-bar conferences, motions, rulings, jury instructions and types of testimony; organizes and searches official record; obtains specific references or testimony, as requested; reminds parties to speak clearly or one at a time as needed.
• Maintains high level of concentration and attentiveness throughout all court proceedings, regardless of disruptions and other unpredictable and adverse conditions.
• Utilizes computer equipment and software for preparation of transcripts and court orders; researches and formulates and regularly edits, updates and maintains computer-aided transcription dictionaries.
• Maintains accurate and complete files and records, including stenographic notes, computer disks, exhibit lists, witness lists, court calendars and other materials for archiving.
• Transcribes, proofreads, certifies and provides official transcripts and related reports and documents upon request by translating court proceedings from stenographic notes to English.
• Participates in interviewing applicants and may make hiring recommendations.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Graduation from an approved high school supplemented by graduation from a post-secondary court reporting program accredited by the National Court Reporters Association (or another nationally recognized regulatory body) with an Associate's degree or diploma, five years supervisory experience, and thorough experience (seven years) as a court reporter.

• Thorough knowledge of trial and appellate court procedures, established precedent, rulings and decisions relating to court reporter obligations and responsibilities.
• Thorough knowledge of English grammar, punctuation and spelling, legal, medical and technical terminology and legal concepts.
• Thorough knowledge of current provisions affecting court reporting in the Virgin Islands Code, Rules of Court, and National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) Code of Professional Ethics, Guidelines for Professional Practice and Transcript Format Guidelines.
• Thorough knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software, which may include word processing, spreadsheet, database and computer-aided transcription software.
• Knowledge of legal research materials.
• Ability to make a verbatim record of proceedings at speeds of up to and at times exceeding 225 words per minute for extended periods of time.
• Ability to listen and concentrate for extended periods of time.
• Ability to exercise tact, patience and impartiality during all court proceedings, without regard to disruption and adverse and stressful conditions.
• Ability to accurately transcribe stenographic notes.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment.
• Ability to prepare complex documentation and forms related to appellate transcripts.
• Ability to coordinate, prioritize and organize workload to meet transcript production guidelines, including negotiating terms of transcript production when applicable.
• Ability to interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, rules, policies and procedures.
• Skilled in working under pressure of deadlines, maintaining a professional demeanor during stressful situations, and establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with all persons contacted during the course of work.
• Ability to understand and carry out complex or ambiguous oral and written instructions and execute tasks promptly.
• Ability to recognize and maintain the need for confidentiality.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with a diverse group of people.
• Ability to be flexible regarding assignments, which may include travel and transporting equipment.
• Ability to type 65 wpm.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct and evaluate the work of technical staff in a manner conducive to high morale and productivity.
• Must exemplify the desired Court culture and philosophies.

The Judiciary of the U.S. Virgin Islands offers talented and motivated individuals an opportunity to work in an environment committed to upholding justice and dispensing the law, as well as a platform to make an impact on your community. We offer a challenging but rewarding workplace with excellent benefit packages, cutting edge technology, opportunities for training, networking, growth, interaction with diverse teams, and fulfilling careers for new and experienced professionals. Join a team that will unlock your full potential and direct you a long-term career path that will catapult you to excellence!!

Under minimal supervision, performs professional work of considerable difficulty in reporting and transcribing verbatim court and court proceedings. Develops, prepares, and presents the official verbatim record of hearings, trials, and other court proceedings held before judges, commissioners, and other judicial officers as official court transcripts of proceedings.

• Attends court sessions to take down the spoken words of participants in the court process; uses stenograph machine and other equipment to create a verbatim record of testimony, colloquy, and discussions associated with court proceedings; works in the courtroom, chambers or other locations as required; may provide real-time reporting services. Records testimony at a pace sufficient to allow uninterrupted progress of proceedings and reads back testimony upon request by judge or attorneys.
• Transcribes verbatim court and legal proceedings. Prepares, proofreads, signs and certifies final official court transcripts of the verbatim testimony and discussions taking place in court proceedings in the format prescribed by Arizona Revised Statutes and Arizona Rules of Court; may transcribe from audio digital recording systems.
• Catalogs and files stenographic notes and transcripts; maintains current index and record of transcripts pending, transcripts in process, and transcripts delivered; replies to correspondence, responds to requests for information and assistance, and prepares billing statements related to transcripts of proceedings.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education:
High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience:
A minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience as a court reporter. Reporting experience in trial courts required.

Additional Requirements:
Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license without restrictions.
Must complete annual training as required by the Committee on Judicial Education and Training (COJET).
Must be certified in Arizona or undergo Conditional Initial Certification per AJCA 7-206.
Must meet annual training requirements for certified Court Reporters.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Applicable Arizona Revised Statutes, Arizona Rules of Court, state and local administrative orders, policies, and procedures.
• Legal research techniques and procedures.
• Generally accepted court reporting practices and procedures.
• English grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary used in medical, legal, scientific, and engineering work as well as basic, commonly used foreign words and phrases.
• Business English, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and composition.
• Clerical office practices and procedures.
• Research techniques and report writing.
• Filing and recordkeeping.

Skill in:

• Transcribing verbatim court and legal proceedings with speed and accuracy.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing and communicating orally in a face-to-face setting and by virtual means with public and employees.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.
• Organization and attention to detail.

Ability to:

• Report all court proceedings verbatim by use of specialized equipment, reading back testimony from stenographic notes and transcripts.
• Catalog and file of stenographic notes and transcripts.
• Prioritize, schedule, and organize work to meet established deadlines.
• Work under pressure in a highly dynamic work environment with changing demands and priorities.
• Reply to correspondence, phone calls, and in-person inquiries related to transcripts of court proceedings.
• Provide and use stenograph machine, computer hardware and software, including printer and toner.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with associates, employees of other departments, representatives of other organizations, County officials, and the public.
• Keep management informed of key operating issues affecting the department.
• Remain current in knowledge required to perform assigned duties.
• Handle confidential matters and always maintain discretion.
• Act with courtesy, tact, and diplomacy.

Work Environment:
The work environment is associated with a courtroom. The work area is adequately lighted, heated or cooled and ventilated.

Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time. Sufficient vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech ability to communicate effective in-person and telephonically. Capable of frequent repetitive movement of arms, fingers, and wrists. Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.

Additional Job Information:
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 13
Classification: At-Will
Safety Sensitive: No

• 10 Holidays Per Year
• Annual Leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health Care Insurance – Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term & Short-Term Disability
• Retirement Plans
• Sick Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement Program

• 457 Deferred Compensation Program
• Dependent Health Care Insurance - Medical, Dental, Vision
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Short-Term Disability
• Supplemental Life (for employees & dependents)

• Part-Time, Temporary and Seasonal employees accrue Sick Leave based on hours worked.
• Part-Time employees have limited benefits available.
• Temporary and Seasonal employees are not eligible to accrue Annual Leave.

$3,000 hiring bonus to join the Judicial Branch! The Judicial Branch is a state-funded Branch of Government that offers benefits to include medical/dental/vision, $20,000 free basic life insurance, state-matched 156% retirement plan, 13 paid holidays, earned paid vacation and sick leave, tuition reimbursement and more.

The Administrative Office of the Courts and Probation (AOCP) is accepting applications for a full time Official Court Reporter in the Red Willow County District Court, 11th Judicial District and travel is expected. Under direct supervision of District Court Judge Patrick Heng, this is a responsible paraprofessional position. The work involves verbatim reporting and transcribing for court proceedings, hearings and conferences. Employees in the Court Reporter I classification have met the qualifications set forth in §1-204(A)(2) and § 1-204(B) or (C). Employees in the Court Reporter II classification have met the above qualifications and are certified as a Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR), through the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA); or a Federal Certified Realtime Reporter (FCRR).

Official Court Reporters who would like to work for the AOCP and are not interested in doing freelance court reporting are given the option of having the AOCP purchase and keep updated all of their equipment and software. For stenographic official court reporters, this includes providing you with a laptop, docking station, monitor(s), steno machine, software (Eclipse by Advantage Software or Case CATalyst by Stenograph, LLC), microphone and/or handheld device for making a backup digital audio recording of court proceedings, and secure cloud backup storage. For digital official court reporters, this includes audio recording system (laptop/PC, docking station, microphone(s), mixer), monitor(s), and audio recording software (Liberty Recorder).

Apply as soon as possible; applications will close when the position is filled. The position is available to start on June 26th, 2023.

The Judicial Branch values our employees as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. We recruit, hire, train and promote in all job qualifications at all levels without regard to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or genetics. The Judicial Branch adheres to Veterans Preference Laws.

Hiring Rate: Court Reporter I $4,407.92 or Court Reporter II $5,102.71 per month.

The Official Court Reporter may perform the following duties to include provide real-time records for court trials, hearings, or conferences, attend courtroom proceedings and other proceedings to make verbatim official recordings, read back transcripts during trial and courtroom proceedings, transcribing the proceedings according to required formats into accurate transcripts for purposes of appeal or by order of the court, review and certify the accuracy of printed transcripts and file in a timely manner, check and operate digital recording equipment to record, log court proceedings, identify participants by name to facilitate reporting; read aloud statements of participants as requested during proceedings, prepare, distribute, and preserve transcripts and related reports and documents, maintain files and records of notes and exhibits, enter case information in DOCKET, an enhancement of JUSTICE (the court case management system), performs clerical duties related to the court, attend meetings and training as required.

(Position may not be assigned all the duties listed, nor do the listed examples include all the duties that may be assigned.)

Note: At any point, court reporting personnel may be required to undergo a competency evaluation based on the above criteria upon the request of the judge, the Nebraska Court of Appeals, or the Nebraska Supreme Court. Failure to meet such competency criteria shall constitute cause for action pursuant to the Nebraska Supreme Court Personnel Policies and Procedures.

• Knowledge of Computer Aided Transcription software.
• Knowledge of legal, medical and technical terminology.
• Knowledge of a variety of equipment including computer terminals, electronic recording equipment and printers.
• Knowledge of secretarial practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of office systems, procedures and equipment.
• Knowledge of word processing and internet software.
• Knowledge of court rules and procedures and legal vocabulary.
• Recordkeeping skills.
• Skilled in advanced spelling, punctuation, vocabulary and grammar usage.
• Skilled in the use of word processing and internet applications.
• Skilled in accurate transcription from audio recordings.
• Written and oral communication skills.
• Proofreading and editorial skills.
• Interpersonal skills to deal effectively with all levels of personnel and the public.

Requires skill in operating digital recording and transcription equipment. Organizing and prioritizing work. Using spreadsheets, database, word processing, presentation, financial/accounting and other software to gather, organize, analyze, and present information. Transcribing and taking dictation, including typing 225 words per minute in accordance with the standards of the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA).

Maintaining exhibits and documentary evidence. Delivering high quality, customer-focused service. Understanding, using and explaining Court-specific computer applications to manage court processes, gather and analyze statistics, and create reports. Building sustainable working relationships with other County personnel, officials, and the public. Communicating effectively with coworkers, supervisor, and the public. Generating enthusiasm and support for program objectives.

This job description indicates, in general, the nature and level of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities. Incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.

EXAMINATION:
The examination will consist of an evaluation of education and experience, accomplished by analysis of the application. Application must document that the applicant possesses the minimum knowledge, skills, education and experience as listed to be rated as qualified. If selected, an official, accredited college transcript is required, at time of employment, for all degrees/course work used to qualify for this position.

All applications must be completed in full before they are submitted. Please review all applications for accuracy and make all corrections before submittal because errors can result in not meeting the minimum qualifications. Additional information will not be accepted after applications are received by the Department of Human Resources Management.