Entry Level Official Court Reporter Jobs in Michigan

JOB TITLE: Court Reporter

 An AFSCME 3308 Bargaining Unit Position

REPORTS TO: Court Reporter Supervisor

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Court Reporter Supervisor, is responsible for the verbatim reporting and transcription of court proceedings, maintenance and storage of all transcripts and notes, as required and in compliance with Michigan Court Rules, statutes, and Court policy; and provides secretarial services to the assigned Judge. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

1. Performs court reporting responsibilities in the assigned courtroom or off-site hearing locations, including but not limited to, creating a verbatim record, operating digital electronic recording equipment to accurately record courtroom and trial proceedings as they occur, marking exhibits, requesting clarification of testimony, and reading back required testimony. 

1. Prepares a written or electronic transcript when requested or ordered by the Court pursuant to Michigan Court Rules, statutes, and Court policy.

1. Furnishes, without delay, a certified transcript of the official record at the request of any party or when ordered by the Court. Note: The preparation of any transcript for any party other than the Court shall be done at the expense of the party ordering the transcript and shall not be prepared during the Court Reporter's normal work hours unless authorized by the supervisor.

1. Provides secretarial services to assigned judges. These services include but are not limited to, answering phones, typing correspondence, and ordering office supplies.

1. Maintains, stores, and categorizes notes in accordance with Michigan Court Rules, statutes, and Court policy. 

1. Provides and maintains court reporting computer equipment and performs necessary repairs or updates.

1. Performs other duties as assigned.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

1. Obtains and maintains all required state licenses and certifications necessary to perform the functions of a Court Reporter. Only reporters or recorders certified pursuant to MCR 8.108 may record or prepare transcripts at proceedings held in Michigan courts. One must possess all the necessary equipment prior to coming aboard.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS: 

1. The job requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a certificate from an accredited school for Court Reporting. 

1. Must possess one of three certifications through the state of Michigan; (CSR) Certified Stenographer Certificate, (CSMR) Certified Stenomask Reporter, (Realtime certification preferred) or (CER) Certified Electronic Recorder and the necessary equipment.

1. Must own and maintain the equipment and software to produce an immediate translation.

1. Must possess at least three (3) years of court reporting experience as a freelance reporter as a Court Reporter, or a combination thereof.

1. Must have the knowledge, skills, and ability to produce a high-quality verbatim record. 

1. Proficient typing, word processing, and computer skills necessary to effectively utilize software and spreadsheet applications for data entry and the creation and compilation of various documents, communications, and reports. 

1. Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to provide accurate, timely information and communicate effectively, competently, and professionally, both orally and in writing, with Court personnel, Judges, justice system partners, and members of the public.

1. Mental ability to frequently handle pressures related to dealing with distracting influences such as people, phone calls, and noise and pressures related to meeting deadlines, fulfilling transcript requirements, and the simultaneous handling of multiple projects requiring concentration and attention to detail. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

1. Normal office environment with little discomfort due to heat, dust, noise, and the like.

1. Physical ability to frequently sit, perform repetitive movements, and work in confined areas. Required to work at remote locations outside the court building, as necessary. Travels to remote work locations outside the court building by foot or other transportation.

1. Assigned work schedule may be other than Monday through Friday. Extended workday beyond 7.5 hours a day. Evenings, weekends, and holidays may occasionally be required, as scheduled, and with or without notice, based on the needs of the Court.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

1. Strength, dexterity, coordination, and vision to use a keyboard and video display terminal daily. Ability to communicate with the public and Court staff. Dexterity and coordination to handle files and single pieces of paper. Occasional lifting of objects weighing up to fifteen (15) pounds such as files, stacks of paper, references, and other materials. Moving from place to place within an office. Some reaching for items above and below desk level.

1. Ability to occasionally sit, walk, or stand for long periods, perform repetitive movements, and work in confined areas.