Court Reporter

Job Definition

Under direction, prepare and transcribe official verbatim recordings of court proceedings using machine shorthand; and to perform related work as assigned. Certified voice writers are also eligible to apply for the position of Court Reporter. This classification is full-time, represented and non-exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Essential Functions (Core Competencies)

• Records verbatim testimony and court proceedings using an accepted method of machine shorthand or using voice writing technology.
• Requests clarification of instructions, orders, or other actions to properly note the official record.
• Prepares and reads back all or portions of the official court proceedings upon instruction from the Judicial Officer.
• Reviews and certifies printed transcripts of court proceedings.
• Explains terminology, procedures and regulations related to transcription, billing and collection.
• Obtains supplies and maintenance for own equipment.
• Contacts law enforcement agencies, laboratories and others regarding spelling of names of personnel, slang, testing procedures, curriculum vitae, etc.
• Uses reference materials for accurate spelling of medical, technical and other specialized vocabulary.
• Maintains current knowledge of State regulations related to court reporting.
• Works effectively with a diverse clientele.
• Maintains confidentiality of records.
• Collects statistical information and prepares reports, as necessary.
• Performs other related work as required by business needs.

Required Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities – The successful applicant will possess the following (KSAs): Knowledge of:

• Techniques and procedures for using machine shorthand equipment, including real-time computer aided approaches.
• Courtroom procedures and protocol.
• Laws, codes and regulations related to court reporting services.
• Technical terminology, documents and procedures, as required by court proceedings.
• English, grammar, spelling and punctuation; and
• Standard office methods and equipment.

Ability to:

• Take machine shorthand at the speed and accuracy specified for licensing by the State of California.
• Attend to and distinguish multiple voices.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Communicate effectively with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and temperaments.
• Accept guidance by technical standards and policies.
• Read and interpret applicable statutes, regulations, and rules.
• Exercise sound independent judgment within general policy guidelines.
• Organize and manage multiple priorities.
• Work cooperatively with other staff, supervisors, managers, bench officers and other justice partners.
• Maintain confidentiality of information.
• Exercise attention to detail.
• Organize and prioritize own work, working under deadlines and meeting legal deadlines; and
• Exercise tact and discretion in dealing with the public and with sensitive information.

Educational and Work Experience Requirements

• Must possess and maintain a certificate as a Certified Shorthand Reporter issued by the State of California or evidence of successful testing in accordance with Government Code § 69942 for either shorthand reporting skills or voice writing reporting skills. Must provide and maintain own reporting and transcription equipment.

Desirable Qualifications

• Five percent (5%) additional pay differential, if deemed real time capable.
• Ten percent (10%) additional pay differential, if real time certified by NCRA.

Supplemental Information

Special Requirements

• A valid California driver's license may be required or the ability to provide alternate transportation if prohibited by a medically documented disability from obtaining a driver's license.
• Must be willing to work outside regular business hours, as needed.
• Must be willing to travel, as needed.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

The duties assigned to this position requires standing, walking, use hands to finger, handle, pinch, pull objects or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, and balance. Customarily, assigned work includes the need to sit for long periods of time and may include frequent lifting of up to approximately 10 pounds. Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds may be required. Some bending, stooping, and/or squatting may be necessary. The noise and traffic level in the work environment are similar to a busy business office. Reasonable accommodation requests will be considered during pre-employment testing period and after employment when requested, medically documented, and determined by the court to be appropriate under applicable law.

Benefits

Solano Superior Court employees are valued. The court offers an excellent benefit package:

• CalPERS retirement (specific benefit determined pursuant to the Public Employee Pension Reform Act of 2013)
• Participation in Social Security, Medicare and State Disability Insurance;
• Medical insurance (plans offered by CalPERS), dental insurance (HMO & PPO plans), and vision insurance with generous employer contribution toward premium;
• Supplemental retirement plan (457 deferred compensation plan through CalPERS);
• Flexible spending account for qualifying medical, dependent care or transportation expenses;
• Basic life insurance at no cost to employee; employees may purchase additional life insurance for self and dependents;
• Sick leave earned at approximately 12 days per year;
• Vacation earned at approximately 10 days per year, increasing to 15 days per year after 3 years to 17.5 days after 5 years to 21 days after 10 years and 22 days after 20 years;
• Floating holiday of 2 days per year (may be prorated first year);
• Employee assistance program available at no cost to employee for self and dependents.
• Longevity pay after 10 years.