What does a court reporter need to do before submitting the final transcript?

A court reporter's primary responsibility is to ensure that the final transcript accurately reflects the proceedings of the court. Before submitting the final transcript, proofreading and editing for accuracy is essential to eliminate any typographical errors, misinterpretations, or omissions during the transcription process. This step is crucial as it maintains the integrity of the official record, ensuring that all parties involved have an accurate account of what occurred during the proceedings.

While sharing the transcript with the judge for approval may be a necessary step in some contexts, it is not a universal requirement for all court reporters. Additionally, providing an audio recording is not typically part of the final submission process, as the focus is on the written transcript itself. Filing the transcript with the court clerk is a subsequent step that occurs after proofreading and editing, not before. Thus, the emphasis on accuracy through proofreading and editing is fundamental to the role of the court reporter in producing a trustworthy and reliable court record.