Overview
Court reporters record and transcribe verbatim the proceedings of courts, legislative assemblies and committees, and prepare transcripts for use by judges, tribunals and quasi-judicial panels. They are employed by courts of law, provincial and federal legislative assemblies and committees, or they may be self-employed. Medical transcriptionists record, transcribe and edit dictation by physicians and other health care providers, surgical proceedings, health-related reports and other medical documentation. They are employed by hospitals, medical clinics and doctors' offices, or they may be self-employed. Closed captioners, braille technicians and other transcriptionists are included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Court reporters
Record verbatim proceedings of courtroom using electronic stenograph machine or stenomask
Respond to requests during court sessions to read back verbatim evidence
Transcribe recorded proceedings in accordance with established formats
Verify accuracy of transcripts by checking copy against original record of proceedings and accuracy of rulings by checking with judge
Research and locate quotes to ensure accuracy
Respond to requests for transcripts ordered by judges, lawyers or the public
File and store shorthand notes of court session.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$27,516
$37,258
$45,190
Usual Hours Worked Weekly: 24.11
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
300expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Court reporters require completion of secondary school.
Completion of a college or other program in court reporting is usually required and the Chartered Shorthand Reporter (CSR) certificate may be required for court reporters.
Additional information
There is some mobility between occupations in this unit group and other occupations requiring similar knowledge of legal or medical terminology, such as legal or medical administrative positions.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Court reporters in B.C.
- Chartered Shorthand Reporter Certification - BCSRA
Chartered Shorthand Reporter Certification - BCSRA
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a court reporter in B.C., you may need a Chartered Shorthand Reporter Certification. Eligibility is achieved through successful completion of a recognized program and the certifying examinations.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.