When a faulty audio recording left a New Jersey judge unable to rule on a bid to dissolve a decade-old restraining order, the couple embroiled in the dispute was forced to relive their trauma as part of a court-ordered bid to recreate the record in their 2004 restraining order hearing. Experts say the case highlights the important role of court stenographers amid a growing national shortage.
Court reporters long known as “guardians of the record” may be among the last professionals who are held accountable for true accuracy and impartiality of the written word. Their job is.
Just as with a paralegal or legal secretary, an experienced court reporter is a vital part of your legal team, and performing your due diligence in the scheduling process can help.
Kathryn Delap, a Ridgewood native and student at Plaza College, was one of the recipients of the 2023 Horizon Scholarship for excellent work in court reporting.