Court reporter experiences evolution of practice through 30-plus year career
Monday, December 31st, 2012When Maria Schultz of Sioux City, Iowa was first introduced to court reporting it was from watching "The Carol Burnett Show."
"They do these courtroom sketches and show this little lady typing furiously into a little typewriter," Schultz told the Sioux City Journal. "Let me tell you, court reporting is nothing like what you see on TV."
After 33 years as a court reporter, Schultz is retiring from Iowa's 3rd Judicial District. During her stint in the system, she worked with three different judges, the most recent being Edward Jacobson, whom she reported to for 11 years.
As Schultz can attest, the court reporting industry has evolved in leaps and bounds over the years. From handwritten notes to high-tech transcribing software, these professionals offer many advantages to attorneys and judges.
Through her time as a court reporter Schultz was able to see the industry evolve into what it is today. From the very beginning when she had to type two or three copies of a deposition transcripts using carbon and onion-skin paper and when the electronic typewriters of the 1980s hit the courtrooms. Now, software is able to translate the notes Schultz takes during depositions and hearings in realtime, and those transcripts go directly to litigators.
In addition, Wisconsin court reporters are also able to provide video deposition technology. This allows for litigators to depose their clients from anywhere. Also, it can not only help create a more efficient practice, but can also solve any logistical issues they may be experiencing. Furthermore, these services are also available to any surrounding businesses or professionals that may need to have a face-to-face meeting with a business partner abroad.