Court Reporter

Court Reporter

The Superior Court of California, County of Humboldt will, in a fair, accessible, effective, and efficient manner, resolve disputes arising under the law and will interpret and apply the law consistently, impartially, and independently to protect the rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitutions of California and of the United States.

If you are interested in a fulfilling career making a positive difference in our community consider joining our team and applying today!

Position Summary

Under general supervision, records verbatim stenographic notes and accounts of court proceedings; transcribes such notes as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a journey level classification in which incumbents are responsible for independently providing court reporting services within an assigned courtroom or other court proceedings. Work may involve real-time transcription, traditional stenographic recording or use of audio/video recording media.

Example of Essential Duties

(This is not an all-inclusive list, but rather a representative sample of duties). Court Reporter is to record and compile a verbatim record of courtroom proceedings and testimony, including words spoken, movement of proceeding participants and actions taken. Asks Judge for clarification of instructions, orders, or other actions to properly note the official record. Reporter reads back all, or portions of, the official court proceedings including previously spoken testimony to judges, counsel, witnesses and jurors upon request. Transcribes and prepares verbatim notes in printed or magnetic media transcripts using computer-aided transcription software within prescribed time deadlines. Performs basic legal and office file research to ensure appropriate case documentation of names, quotations and similar information. May transcribe and/or provide transcripts for other public bodies such as the Grand Jury.

Education and Experience

Must possess a current Certified Shorthand Reporter Certificate (CSR). Real-time skills and equipment experience preferred. Possession of a driver's license may be required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to use, adjust and perform minor maintenance on stenographic and similar equipment related to court reporter work. Knowledge of basic legal, medical and related technical terminology and processes; courtroom practices and procedures; business English including spelling, punctuation, and grammar are desired. Have the ability to demonstrate court operations and procedure, courtroom etiquette and conventions. Must be able to take verbatim dictation of courtroom and related proceedings and transcribe such information rapidly and accurately at a rate of at least 200 words per minute; understand and follow oral and written instructions; be patient, tactful and courteous when dealing with judges and officers of the court, the public and co-workers.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

The physical requirements referenced below, must be met and are encountered by an employee while successfully performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made in order to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. See Examination Process section.

Regularly Required

• Sit at a desk and/or in front of a computer terminal
• Twist and bend neck
• Repetitive hand movement while performing computer data entry as well as writing
• Stand while assisting employees or the public.
• Reach above and below shoulder height
• Grasp, lift and move items weighing up to 10 lbs.
• Push and/or pull drawers of desk and/or file cabinets

Frequently Required

• Kneel, crouch and stoop while retrieving materials from shelves and cabinets
• Tolerate mild exposure to dust
• Grasp, lift and move items weighing up to 25 lbs.

Occasionally Required

• Move items weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Crawl and/or climb while retrieving materials
• Drive to various meeting locations