Listen Closely: A Career in Court Reporting  

Thanks to CourtTV and shows like C.S.I., the criminal justice field has been attracting attention and job seekers like never before. If you find yourself wanting to jump in on the action, but you're not too keen on the idea of putting your life in danger, then maybe you should consider a career in court reporting.

The field of court reporting allows you to get the inside scoop, but from a safe distance. Aside from being a reliable presence in the courtroom, basic court reporting responsibilities involve producing word-for-word transcripts of legal proceedings, speeches, conversations, meetings, and any other situation that would merit an accurate written account of spoken words for correspondence, records and/or legal proof.

Opportunities for the aspiring court reporter are highly favorable, as the number of job openings currently outnumbers the number of job seekers. Those with proper certification and training will have the most success. The average court reporter earned a salary of $42,920 in 2004, with the potential to earn more than $80,000.

Most court reporters work in courtrooms or attorney's offices, but an increasing trend in the field of court reporting is home-based and freelance employment; the latter is ideal for those trying to balance working and raising a family. When working in a courtroom or office setting, the hours will be predictable and steady (generally a 40-hour workweek), while being employed as an independent contractor or freelance court reporter will allow you much more flexibility.

Training in court reporting can take anywhere from a few months to three years, depending on the type of court reporting in which you are interested. There are over 160 postsecondary vocational and technical schools and colleges that offer programs in court reporting. Some states require court reporters to pass a state test or examination in order to become certified in court reporting, in addition to receiving proper educational instruction.

ITT Technical Institute, a leader in adult education and online learning for over 17 years, offers an associate of arts degree in criminal justice and a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice administration. Both of these programs can enhance your knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice field, as well as open doors for you within the field if you ever wish to try something new.

Above all, those in the field of court reporting must be especially adept at recording and relaying information, as well as possess excellent listening and English grammar skills. Some court reporters, called voice writers, receive and communicate information solely via speech, and therefore must be able to listen and speak simultaneously and with exceptional speed and accuracy.

A career in court reporting could be right around the corner with the adult-friendly education and training programs available today. So don't hesitate to learn more about this exciting field!

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About the Author

Elise B. Zito is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school or career that's right for you!