Court Reporter I

Full Job Description

The South Carolina Judicial Branch is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented professional to join our Court Services Department as a Court Reporter I.

Under the direct supervision of a Court Reporter Supervisor, the Court Reporter I plays an essential role in accurately capturing and preserving the official record of Family Court proceedings using steno and voice writing methods.

This position also ensures certified transcripts are prepared and delivered in accordance with deadlines established by law and court rules.

This is an excellent opportunity to build a career in a respected statewide court system, supporting judges, attorneys, court personnel, and the public.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Position

This job bulletin represents general duties for this position and is not intended to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Attend court proceedings and create verbatim recordings by stenographic and/or voice writing methods with a digital backup device to ensure a clear and complete audio recording of legal proceedings. Upload all audio and physical court records to OneDrive weekly, in the required format.
• Acquire and maintain equipment and supplies necessary to capture the record. Verify proper operation of equipment prior to court proceedings and troubleshoot issues as needed.
• Read or play back testimony during proceedings at the direction of the presiding judge.
• Receive, inventory, record, and maintain exhibits entered as evidence in court. File exhibits with the Clerk of Court in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations, retaining proof of delivery.

Prepare certified verbatim transcripts: proofread, edit, print, bind, prepare trial index, certify accuracy, and distribute copies within required deadlines.

Maintain confidentiality of official records and respond promptly to transcript requests. Maintain all notes and records as required by the SC Court Reporter Manual and applicable law.

• Adhere to principles of professionalism, including punctuality, preparedness, dress code compliance, courtesy and civility, neutrality, discretion, and integrity. Work independently, exercising sound judgment and discretion.
• Assist judges and court personnel with reasonable requests in and outside of the courtroom. Complete required weekly timesheets and monthly/quarterly reports.
• Attend meetings and training sessions as required.
• Expected to interpret and apply SC Court Reporters Manual rules, practices, and procedures.
• Must advise supervisor of issues, concerns, or recommendations affecting job duties.
• Stenographers and voice writers must provide and maintain their own equipment; SCJB does not provide this equipment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Work hours may vary based on court schedules and judicial requirements. Flexibility is essential to meet the needs of the court.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• At least two (2) years of relevant legal, criminal justice, or advocacy experience with thorough knowledge of hearing procedures and transcript preparation.

• A degree in court reporting from an accredited school or institution OR verified credentials as a Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) or Certified Verbatim Reporter (CVR).

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

• General knowledge of nationally recognized court reporter practices and procedures.
• Specific knowledge of SC Court Reporters Manual policies and procedures.
• Proficiency with computers and modern court reporting technology/equipment.
• Strong transcription, listening, proofreading, and time management skills.
• Ability to exercise discretion, sound judgment, and maintain neutrality.
• Effective communication and professional interaction with judges, attorneys, staff, and the public.
• Ability to work independently, remain detail-oriented, and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to concentrate under pressure and sit for long periods.
• Punctuality is required.
• Must be able to work autonomously with initiative, motivation, and integrity.
• Represent SCJB as an officer of the court, upholding ethical and professional conduct, including:
  • Producing quality work and meeting deadlines
  • Responding promptly to emails and transcript requests
  • Staying current on statutes and court rules affecting court reporters
  • Communicating clearly and respectfully, verbally and in writing
  • Dressing appropriately per SCJB standards

Qualifications

• Verified credentials as RPR or CVR with at least four (4) years prime court reporting experience.

Additional Information

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.
• 13 paid state holidays.
• Workers’ Compensation Benefits.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The South Carolina Judicial Branch is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, pregnancy, age, or disability.