Digital Court Reporter I

Job Responsibilities

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.

• Attends court proceedings and creates verbatim recordings by operating electronic audio recording equipment provided by SCJB to create a clear and complete quality audio recording of legal proceedings.
• Verifies proper operation of the equipment prior to court proceedings and troubleshoots issues with designated IT support team so as to avoid delays and disruptions to court.
• Creates 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.
• Plays back testimony during proceedings at the direction of the presiding judge.
• Receives, inventories, records, and maintains exhibits entered as evidence in court. Files case exhibits with Clerk of Court in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Retains a receipt of delivery to the Clerk's office.
• Remains as a neutral observer during court proceedings, refrains from causing disruptions to the proceedings; and exercises the highest levels of professional integrity in the disposition of job responsibilities.
• Maintains concentration and sits in a courtroom for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to work independently, exercising good judgement and discretion. Assists judges and court personnel with reasonable requests while working in and outside of the courtroom.
• Attends meetings or training sessions as required.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum And Additional Requirements

• Education and Experience: High school diploma. Verified current credentials as a Certified Electronic/Digital Court Reporter by the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT).
• Computer and Word Processing Experience: Computer and word processing experience and ability to operate digital recording equipment.
• Physical Demands: 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.
• Other Requirements: Must be able to work independently, exercise judgment and discretion, communicate effectively, and maintain confidentiality.

Knowledge

• General Knowledge: National court reporter practices and procedures.
• Specific Knowledge: Court reporter policies, procedures, and practices as outlined in the SC Court Reporters Manual.
• Technology: Modern court reporting technology and equipment.
• Computing: Proficient in the use of computers and computer equipment.

Abilities

• Time Management: Excellent time management and listening skills.
• Detail-Oriented: Detail-oriented and able to work independently.
• Professionalism: Courteous and professional manner when dealing with others.
• Judgment and Discretion: Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in interpreting and applying policies and procedures.
• Communication: Effective communication with Judges, attorneys, coworkers, and the general public.
• Relationship Building: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Confidentiality: Maintains confidentiality of the court proceedings.

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.
• Benefits For State Employees: The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
• Insurance Benefits: Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
• Retirement Benefits: State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
• Workplace Benefits: State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more. Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.