FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
If you are considering a career in court reporting, read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
What Is a Court Reporter?
A court reporter is exactly what it sounds like—a reporter that makes a record of everything that is said during an official courtroom proceeding.
How Do I Become a Court Reporter?
For years, the only way to become a court reporter was to become a stenographer, but now the process of becoming a court reporter is a lot simpler thanks to the wide-spread adoption of voice writing.
Whereas becoming a stenographer required at least three years of formal training, you can become a certified voice writer (fully trained in real-time dictation and CAT software) in as little as 12 months.
What Tools Do Court Reporters Use?
Modern court reporters are voice writers, and voice writers use Dragon Professional software as well as CAT software systems to produce Voice writers use Dragon and CAT systems to capture the spoken word inside the courtroom.
Why Should I Enroll at the International Court Reporting Institute?
The voice writing program taught at the International Court Reporting Institute is the ONLY voice writing program in the United States that’s taught by a working Realtime Verbatim Reporter, with more than 14 years of training experience.
This is NOT a test prep course—you will learn everything you need to know to not only pass the certification exams, but also thrive in your new career.
Are Student Loans Available?
Financing options are available at the International Realtime Court Reporting Institute—you can enroll for up to 60 months.
How Much Money Do Court Reporters Make?
Salaries vary from state to state, the median salary for a court reporter in the United States is $57,000 per year.
What Are The Benefits to Being a Court Reporter?
Yes! In addition to a great salary, court reporters are often involved in exciting legal cases. Moreover, court reporters have incredible flexibility in their careers—many reporters can make their own hours, or even work from home.
Will the International Court Reporting Institute Help Me Find a Job?
Yes, upon graduation, the International Court Reporting Institute will help you with job placement as either a traditional court reporter or a freelance voice writer taking depositions in the field.
How Long Will It Take to Graduate?
Most students finish their training in less than 12 months, with some students finishing as quickly as six months.
When Can I Enroll?
Because the International Realtime Court Reporting Institute is a self-paced, online program, there are no specific enrollment dates—as soon as you’re ready to sign up, you can start learning!
