Rule # 7 Never go to Court without a Court Reporter

NEVER EVER EVER GO TO COURT WITHOUT A Court Reporter do not rely on the proceeding being recorded. Fact to obtain a CD it will take longer than the 10 days allowed to file your exceptions. Do not expect a court reporter to be present. You must fully transcribe your hearing if there are any discrepancies to be presented.

Always attend court with a court reporter to ensure your testimony and proceedings are documented.

In a pro se family court case, a court reporter provides significant advantages by ensuring an accurate, verbatim record of all court proceedings. Here are some key benefits:

1. Accurate Record: The court reporter captures every word spoken in court, which is critical if there are any disagreements about what was said. This record can later be referenced if you need to appeal, request a retrial, or clarify specific statements.

2. Protection Against Misinterpretation: Without an attorney to clarify, it’s vital to have an official record of your statements and the judge’s words. This minimizes the risk of misinterpretations and helps if you need to refer back to what was discussed.

3. Support for Appeals: Should you decide to appeal any part of the case, a precise transcript is required for the appeals court to review your arguments. The absence of this record can significantly hinder the appeal process.

4. Useful for Post-Trial Motions: Pro se litigants may find that having a transcript helps them when filing post-trial motions, as they can quote exactly from the judge’s orders, opposing counsel’s arguments, and any testimonies provided.

5. Verification of Judicial Conduct: In cases where judicial bias or misconduct is suspected, a transcript provides an impartial account. This can serve as evidence if you need to address concerns over the judge’s behavior or decisions.

A court reporter’s transcript can be indispensable for navigating complex family court proceedings on your own, ensuring that everything said is properly documented and can be referenced as needed.

To find one:

• Search “court reporter near me” online.

• Typical rates:

  • $75 to $120 per hour

  • $5 to $9 per page (as of July 25, 2021)