31 Oct Stenographer vs Court Reporter
Differences Between Stenographers and Court Reporters
There is a lot of confusion about the difference between stenographers and court reporters. Some people think that they are the same thing, while others believe that stenographers only work in court. So, how are stenographers and court reporters different?
A stenographer is someone who uses shorthand to transcribe speeches, interviews, and other audio recordings. Court reporters, on the other hand, create a verbatim record of court proceedings.
Let’s take a look at the history of both professions and see how they have evolved. We will also discuss the differences between stenographers and court reporters, and explain why you might want to choose one career over the other. Finally, we will take a look at salary information for both careers so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you!
What Is a Stenographer?
A stenographer is someone who uses shorthand to transcribe speeches, interviews, and other audio recordings. In the past, stenographers would use a machine called a stenotype to create transcriptions. However, nowadays most stenographers use a computer with specialized software that allows them to type quickly and accurately.
Stenographers need to have excellent typing skills and be able to understand different accents and dialects. They also need to be able to type very quickly so that they can keep up with the speaker’s words.
How to Become a Stenographer
If you are interested in becoming a stenographer, there are a few things that you will need to do. First, you will need to complete high school or earn your GED. Next, you will need to attend a training program at a vocational school or community college.
After completing your training, you will need to pass an exam administered by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). Once you have passed this exam, you will be officially certified as a stenographer!
What Is a Court Reporter?
A court reporter is someone who creates a verbatim record of court proceedings. Court reporters use specialized equipment to transcribe spoken words into written form. This written record is then used to provide a transcript of the proceedings.
Court reporters must have excellent typing skills and be able to understand different accents and dialects. They also need to be able to type very quickly so that they can keep up with the speaker’s words.
How to Become a Court Reporter
The route to becoming a court reporter is quite similar to that of a stenographer. If you are interested in becoming a court reporter, you will need to complete high school or earn your GED. Following this, you will attend a training program at a vocational school or community college.
After you receive your college degree or certification, you will need to pass an exam administered by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). After completing this exam, you will be officially certified as a court reporter!
History of Stenographers & Court Reporters
The history of stenography goes back thousands of years. Ancient cultures used symbols and abbreviations to record important messages and events. In 1829, an Italian named Giovanni Battista de Rossi created the first modern stenography machine.
The first official stenography association was founded in 1837 in the United States. In 1859, the first shorthand book was published in America. This book, called “Phonography,” was written by Isaac Pitman.
Pitman’s system of shorthand used symbols to represent the sounds of speech. This system is still used by some stenographers today! In 1879, a woman named Emma Dearborn became the first professional court reporter in America.
During the 20th century, many technological advances were made to stenography machines and software. In 1955, IBM released its electric typewriter which had a built-in memory that could store up to 80 characters. This machine helped revolutionize the stenography industry!
Today, most stenographers use a computer with specialized software that allows them to type quickly and accurately. This software often uses a phonetic approach to transcribing speech.
Stenographer vs Court Reporter Salary
How do the salaries of stenographers and court reporters compare? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for stenographers is $50,620 per year. The median salary for court reporters is $57,150 per year.
As you can see, both careers offer competitive salaries. However, court reporters tend to earn slightly more than stenographers. This is likely because court reporters often need to have more experience and training than stenographers.
Both careers offer a variety of job opportunities and provide individuals with the chance to earn a good living. If you are interested in either career, be sure to do your research so that you can find the right path for you!
Finding Work As a Stenographer
So, where do you find work as a stenographer? One of the most common ways to find a job in this field is to search online job boards. Sites like Indeed.com and Monster.com often have a variety of stenography positions listed.
Another option is to search the website of a local court reporting agency. Many agencies hire stenographers to work on a freelance basis. This can be a great way to get your foot in the door and start building your client base!
If you are interested in working as a stenographer, be sure to check out these different job search options. With a little effort, you should be able to find a position that suits your needs and interests!
Finding Work As a Court Reporter
Court reporters may have more career opportunities than stenographers. As a court reporter, you can work in a variety of settings, including law firms, courthouses, and government agencies.
In some cases, large law firms will have their team of court reporters. These reporters will work on-site at the firm to provide transcription services for their clients.
If you are interested in working as a court reporter, your best bet is to search online job boards or contact local court reporting agencies. Many of these agencies hire freelance reporters to work on a per-case basis.
Stenography and court reporting are both exciting careers that offer individuals the chance to earn a good living. With a little effort, you should be able to find a position that suits your needs and interests!
In Conclusion
Both stenographers and court reporters play an important role in the legal system. If you are interested in either career, be sure to do your research so that you can find the right path for you!
Related Questions
Do court reporters attend courtroom trials?
Yes, court reporters are often present at courtroom trials. They are responsible for transcribing the proceedings so that a written record is available. This record can be used by attorneys, judges, and other parties involved in the case.
Do stenographers have to be certified?
In some states, stenographers are required to be certified. In other states, certification is not necessary but may help you find employment. Certification requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to check the requirements in your area.
What type of training do court reporters need?
Court reporters typically need to complete a post-secondary program in court reporting or a related field. These programs usually take two to four years to complete and include coursework in English, computer science, and transcription. Many states also require court reporters to pass a skills test before they can begin working.
