Introduction

When a court proceeding concludes, the transcription of the proceedings remains a crucial aspect of legal documentation. This article explores what happens to the records of court stenographers when no one requests a transcript. We will discuss the retention policies, the impact of jurisdictional differences, and the opportunities stenographers have in selling transcripts.

Retention Policies and Legal Considerations

Following a court proceeding, the records created by court stenographers are generally retained by the court for a specified period. The duration of this retention can vary significantly depending on the jurisdiction. For example, in federal courts in the United States, records are typically retained for several years to ensure they are available for legal appeals and other necessary purposes.

Local court rules and policies play a significant role in determining the fate of these records. Once the retention period has concluded, the court may either destroy or archive the records. Destruction ensures that older, outdated records are no longer accessible, maintaining privacy and security. Archiving, on the other hand, allows for the preservation of records for future reference without endangering privacy.

It is essential for individuals seeking access to these records to be aware of the relevant laws and regulations in their jurisdiction. These laws govern the retention and access to court records, and failure to comply can result in legal complications.

Retention of Original Notes versus Transcripts

In many cases, the court retains the original stenographic notes as part of the official record. However, the transcripts themselves are not automatically produced unless there is a demand for them. This demand can occur due to legal appeals or specific requests from involved parties. Stenographers play a crucial role in creating these notes, which can be invaluable in legal proceedings.

For instance, in federal courts, the court retains the original notes but the transcripts are not automatically generated unless requested. This means that stenographers may have no immediate obligation to transcribe the entire proceeding unless needed. The notes serve as a backup in case a transcript is later required.

Payment and Sales Opportunities for Court Stenographers

Stenographers are compensated for their work, whether or not a transcript is ultimately needed. In my experience as a federal court official, if a transcript is not ordered, it is not transcribed. The notes are kept in the event they are requested at a later time. Stenographers have the opportunity to sell transcripts to interested parties for profit. Historically, they have been able to generate additional income by selling copies of the transcripts.

For example, in the past, stenographers could sell transcriptions for around $80 from the court, with subsequent copies available for $25 or so. This additional income was a significant benefit for many stenographers, as their jobs have become increasingly easier with the advent of technology like Dragon and recording devices. These advancements have reduced transcription times and ensured that notes are digitized and easily accessible.

Conclusion

In summary, the records of court stenographers are typically retained by the court for a specified period, depending on local regulations. The notes are kept even if a transcript is not requested to ensure availability for future necessities. Stenographers are paid for their work, and they have the freedom to sell transcripts to interested parties, generating additional revenue. As technology continues to advance, the role of stenographers is evolving, ensuring that legal records are both accurate and accessible.