Stenographer School

 

               

 

A stenographer records the words that are spoken during a legal proceeding or other important business meeting.  At times a stenographer might also record certain emotions, indications, or expressions necessary to convey the nuances of whatever action is taking place.  The recording of all those words is made by the stenographer through the use of a stenography machine or through a method of voice recording.  Stenographers also perform transcription of webcasts that take place over the internet.  In addition to webcast depositions and other types of events, stenographers also perform services as broadcast captioners for video recordings and television programs.  With the passage of legislation by Congress in 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) began the task of implementing closed captioning requirements to video programming distributors.  Beginning January 1, 2006, most broadcast programming is now required to include closed captioning.  This action dramatically increased the need for skilled stenographers.

In addition to working in a courtroom setting, a stenographer also works directly with lawyers in recording information from witnesses through examinations under oath, sworn statements, or depositions.  This type of information is gathered from witnesses before a court trial is had.  The majority of stenographers work in this capacity and are most commonly referred to as “freelance court reporters,” as opposed to “official court reporters” who work primarily for one judge in one courtroom.  Working as a freelance court reporter does provide work schedule flexibility, as well as opportunities for professional enhancement.

Though a freelancer’s work schedule is somewhat flexible, sincere dedication is required for the job.  It can be challenging, as well as rewarding. Requests for expedited turnaround on a transcript are common, with turnaround sometimes as quickly as 24hours or even that afternoon.  A stenographer must be intuitively connected and have the ability to pick up the subtle nuances in discussions between individuals to produce a transcript that contains proper context.  Use of an incorrect word or even improper punctuation could be enough to cause serious problems in a case.

Becoming a stenographer requires certain classes and/or certifications, depending on the state in which you live.  A stenographer who is flexible and creative can do well in this challenging career.  Having stenography skills can lead you to the halls of Congress or simply to the halls of your local municipality or courthouse.  A stenographer can also work at home by transcribing dictation over the Internet through webcasting or other highly technical methods.  Sometimes the job of a freelancer requires the stenographer to work many hours on a transcript, but then have the ability to refuse work the next day if necessary.   On jobs which require a quick turnaround, it is not uncommon for a stenographer to work as much as 16 to 20 hours straight to complete a transcript on time.  Those long hours, though, can pay off well for a dedicated stenographer, many of whom earn over $80,000 a year.