Job Details

Digital Court Reporter I

The South Carolina Judicial Branch is seeking to fill Digital Court Reporter I positions statewide. The Digital Court Reporter I serves both the Circuit and Family Courts by accurately capturing the record according to the policies and procedures prescribed in relevant statutes and court rules. Essential duties and responsibilities of the position include:

• Attending court proceedings and creating verbatim recordings by operating electronic audio recording equipment provided by SCJB to create a clear and complete quality audio recording of legal proceedings.
• Verifying proper operation of the equipment prior to court proceedings and troubleshooting issues with designated IT support team so as to avoid delays and disruptions to court.
• Creating accurate and detailed electronic time-linked annotations of case events and terminology to serve as a guide to assist the creation of an accurate transcript. Playing back testimony during proceedings at the direction of the presiding judge.
• Receiving, inventorying, recording, and maintaining exhibits entered as evidence in court. Filing case exhibits with Clerk of Court in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Retaining a receipt of delivery to the Clerk's office.
• Adhering to common principles of professionalism to include being punctual and prepared; dressed in accordance with SCJB's dress code; and being courteous and civil when interacting with the judge, counsel, parties, clerk's staff, and the public.
• Remaining as a neutral observer during court proceedings, refraining from causing disruptions to the proceedings; and exercising the highest levels of professional integrity in the disposition of job responsibilities. Must be able to work independently, exercising good judgement and discretion.
• Assisting judges and court personnel with reasonable requests while working in and outside of the courtroom.
• Attending meetings or training sessions as required.
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Minimum qualifications (education and experience) include:

• High school diploma.
• Verified current credentials as a Certified Electronic/Digital Court Reporter by the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT). Successful completion of an AAERT approved Electronic/Digital Court Reporting Program from an institution of higher education may be substituted for the required credentials as a Certified Electronic/Digital Court Reporter.
• Minimum typing speed of 60 wpm with a high rate of accuracy.
• Computer and word processing experience and ability to operate digital recording equipment.
• Must be able to maintain concentration and sit in a courtroom for extended periods of time.
• Must have dependable transportation as this position will require occasional travel to courthouses throughout the circuit.
• Punctuality and avoidance of excessive absences required.

Required knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics include:

• General knowledge of nationally recognized court reporter practices and procedures.
• Specific knowledge of court reporter policies, procedures, and practices as outlined in the SC Court Reporters Manual.
• Knowledge and use of modern court reporting technology and equipment.
• Proficient in the use of computers and computer equipment.
• Excellent time management and listening skills.
• Must be detail-oriented and able to work independently.
• Must be able to deal with others in a courteous and professional manner.
• Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in interpreting and applying policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Judges, attorneys, coworkers and the general public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of the court proceedings.
• Punctuality and avoidance of excessive absences required.

Desirable (preferred) requirements (education and/or experience) include:

• Two (2) or more years of court reporting experience, with a thorough knowledge of hearing procedures and production of transcripts.

Additional comments:

• The South Carolina Judicial Branch offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that include: Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children; State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs (Temporary positions have option to enroll); 15 days paid annual (vacation) leave per year; 15 days paid sick leave per year; Option to designate 10 days of earned paid sick leave per year as family sick leave; Paid parental leave; 13 paid state holidays; and Workers' Compensation Benefits.