Court Reporter II

Full Job Description

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

Under the direct supervision of the Court Reporter Supervisor, the Court Reporter II plays a critical role in the judicial process by accurately capturing court proceedings and preparing certified transcripts within the deadlines established by law and court rules.

This position ensures the integrity and timely production of the official court record while providing essential support to judges, attorneys, court personnel, and the public across multiple counties within the Circuit Court

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 of court proceedings by stenographic and/or voice writing methods with a digital backup device to ensure a clear and complete quality audio recording of legal proceedings.
• Acquire and maintain equipment and supplies necessary to capture the record. Verify proper operation of equipment prior to proceedings and troubleshoot issues as needed.
• Read 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 per 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 proscribed deadlines.

Maintain confidentiality of official records. Timely respond to inmate and layperson transcript requests.

Maintain all notes and records as stipulated by the SC Court Reporter Manual and applicable law.

• Adhere to principles of professionalism: punctuality, preparedness, dress code compliance, courtesy and civility, neutrality, discretion, and integrity. Must be able to work independently, exercising good 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 or training sessions as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• At least two (2) years of prime court reporting 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.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills 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.
• Expected to interpret and apply SC Court Reporters Manual rules, practices, and procedures.
• Must advise supervisor of issues, concerns, or recommendations affecting job duties.
• This position requires flexibility in scheduling. Work hours may be adjusted as needed to accommodate court proceedings or judicial directives.

Qualifications

• High school diploma AND degree in court reporting from an accredited institution; AND at least two (2) years of prime court reporting experience; AND verified credentials as RPR or CVR, or;
• At least four (4) years prime court reporting experience with thorough knowledge of hearing procedures and transcript preparation.

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.