Are Digital Recorders an Acceptable Replacement for Court Reporters?
13 May 2009
Lately there has been a lot of talk about replacing court reporters with digital recording devices. Most of these talks are centered on budget cuts. Many experts in the court reporting industry are cautious, at best, about some states move to digital. Some of the most common concerns are over the small details that digital recorders are incapable of recording. Did the witness mean “there” or “their?” Is the witness’s accent so thick that the judge or jury can’t accurately understand them? These are but two minor issues with digital recorders replacing a certified court reporter.
Our entire legal system is based around all people receiving a fair and accurate trial. So then how can we depend on a digital recording device to accurately capture what ultimately affects people’s lives and liberties? This is not a matter that should be taken lightly and quite frankly States should be looking to cut budgets in other areas before slashing court reporters. Just like any other business, the States deciding to make these cuts should consult a business coach before moving forward with cuts to such a vital industry. After all, individuals, attorneys, and businesses rely on the accurate transcription of the spoken word and this should not be placed in a “machines” hands.
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