What a Digital Court Reporter Actually Does (And How to Become One) 💻
Digital court reporting is one of the fastest-growing roles in the legal field. As remote proceedings, virtual technology, and online depositions become more common, skilled digital reporters are needed now more than ever. If you’re curious about this career or exploring how to enter the field this guide will give you a clear, grounded overview of what digital reporters actually do and how you can become one.
🌿 What a Digital Court Reporter Does
A digital court reporter is responsible for capturing a complete, accurate, and impartial record of legal proceedings. This includes both remote and in-person depositions, hearings, arbitrations, and more.
Your job is to:
Operate digital recording software
Monitor audio and video quality
Manage multiple speakers and overlapping dialogue
Swear in witnesses
Mark and track exhibits
Take detailed notes to support transcript accuracy
Maintain professionalism and neutrality
Protect the integrity of the record at all times
Digital reporters ensure that attorneys, courts, and transcriptionists have everything needed to produce a precise, reliable transcript.
⚖️ A Day in the Life of a Digital Court Reporter
While every proceeding is different, a typical workday includes:
1. Pre-Deposition Setup
Testing your microphone, headphones, and software
Connecting to the deposition platform
Confirming spellings, appearances, and case details
Performing audio checks with all participants
2. During the Proceeding
Swearing in the witness
Monitoring audio quality and asking for repeats if needed
Tracking on/off-the-record times
Marking exhibits
Identifying speakers
Managing interruptions, crosstalk, and technical issues
3. Post-Deposition Tasks
Completing your notes/job report
Providing a summary for the transcription team
Uploading recordings securely depending on agency workflow
No two days look exactly the same, but the core responsibilities remain steady: uphold accuracy, remain neutral, and protect the record.
💛 Who Thrives as a Digital Court Reporter?
This career is ideal for people who are:
Detail-oriented
Calm under pressure
Strong listeners
Tech-comfortable
Professional in communication
Neutral and ethical
Interested in law, justice, or structured work
You don’t need a 225 WPM stenography speed.
You do need consistency, focus, and a commitment to accuracy.
📚 How to Become a Digital Court Reporter
1. Complete Training
You can start with a training program, digital court reporting academy, or agency-led onboarding. Training covers:
Equipment
Software
Procedure
Ethics
Workflow
Real-world practice scenarios
2. Get Certified (Highly Recommended)
The AAERT CER exam (Certified Electronic Reporter) is the industry-standard credential. It boosts your earning power and helps you stand out to agencies.
3. Apply to Agencies
Many agencies hire remote digital reporters. Onboarding often includes:
Shadowing
Mock depositions
Platform training (Zoom, Remote Legal, vTestify, etc.)
Software training (like AS1)
4. Begin Working Depositions
Once trained, you can take:
Remote depositions
In-person depositions
Arbitrations
Hearings
5. Advance Your Skills
Over time, reporters often expand into:
Transcription (CET certification)
Notary services
Legal support services
Freelance multi-stream income
This field grows with you.
🌟 Why Digital Reporting Is Growing
Virtual proceedings are now a permanent part of legal practice. This creates:
Flexible remote work
High demand for qualified reporters
Strong income opportunities
A stable, growing industry
If you're looking for a career with structure, professionalism, and room to grow, digital court reporting is a powerful path.
