Court Recorder/Transcriber

About The Position

The Eighth Judicial District Court is recruiting qualified candidates for the role of Court Recorder/Transcriber. This role involves audio and video recording of court hearings, proceedings, and official actions, with subsequent verbatim transcription of these records into printed documents.

As an essential officer of the court, the incumbent independently manages the accurate recording of all proceedings and court actions. A strong understanding of court procedures and practices is necessary to maintain detailed logs and produce precise and legally valid recordings and transcripts. This role is distinct from other court support positions due to its ongoing responsibility for creating definitive records of court activity.

The position demands expertise in operating and adjusting audio/video recording systems; familiarity with court terminologies, protocols, and the legal framework surrounding transcription and release of court records; proficiency in computer and word processing tools; as well as good knowledge of office procedures including filing, record keeping, and use of standard office equipment. Additionally, mastery of business English, spelling, grammar, punctuation, arithmetic, and some basic legal, court, and medical terminology is required.

Employment Information

This recruitment will produce an open competitive eligibility list to fill current or prospective vacancies within the next six months or extended as required. Candidates selected may be hired for limited-term assignments tied to special projects and will sign a term employment agreement outlining specific dates of service. These term appointments may be eligible for benefits while employed. Some roles might be grant-funded and contingent on continued funding, thus employment may end without appeal. Certain positions could be confidential and excluded from union membership, as this classification is non-union.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Two years of full-time experience preparing verbatim transcriptions from recordings, OR one year of court recording and transcription experience.
• Desirable: College-level coursework in paralegal studies, secretarial, or administrative fields.
• Typing speed must reach a net rate of 70 words per minute from printed text. If uncertified at hire, certification must be achieved within 12 months at personal expense or employment will be terminated.

Working Conditions and Other Requirements

• May require overtime work to complete tasks.
• Employment contingent upon background check and pre-employment drug screening.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US; no H1B sponsorship is offered.

Key Duties

• Set up and operate audio/video equipment to record court proceedings and respond to playback requests from judges or juries.
• Maintain and correlate logs of court sessions and actions, noting relevant details to supplement recordings.
• Transcribe audio/video records into printed transcripts using word processing and transcription tools.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of motions, rulings, and all court actions.
• Authorize transcription requests, retrieve and duplicate recordings, and manage proper storage of materials.
• Proofread and verify transcriptions for correctness.
• Track work output, prepare billing documents for recording/transcription services, and follow up on outstanding payments.
• Supervise relief recorder/transcribers, providing training and guidance.
• Contribute to team effectiveness through suggestions and active participation.
• Manage inventory of forms and recording supplies.
• Operate office equipment such as word processors, recording devices, and fax machines, arranging maintenance as needed.
• Perform office support activities to ensure departmental function.

Physical Requirements

This role requires the ability to work in a standard office environment using typical office equipment, sustain focus and remain seated for prolonged durations, have sufficient vision for reading printed materials and computer screens, and effective hearing and speech skills for communication. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities.