About the position
A Certified Shorthand Reporter, under general supervision, makes verbatim records of court proceedings, produces transcripts, maintains and retrieves files, properly handles evidence and exhibits, and timely responds to statutory time requirements. This position will also require sharing a significant amount of general administrative and secretarial duties with the Court Coordinator. Professional demeanor, effective communication, frequent public interaction, and cooperative attitude is required. This job classification requires that applicants possess certification credentials as required by the State of Texas for Certified Shorthand Reporters. A qualified candidate must comply with a strict Code of Ethics and statutory requirements, including Chapter 52 of the Government Code. This job classification may require a flexible work schedule in order to comply with the demands of the court and statutorily required responsibilities. The candidate must possess enough equipment and reference materials to perform the duties of a Certified Shorthand Reporter. This Court Reporter position is for the County Court at Law #2 for Ellis County, Texas, located in Waxahachie, Texas. Judge A. Gene Calvert, Jr. is the Presiding Judge. This court has wide jurisdiction and numerous responsibilities, but the current assignments are focused primarily on criminal matters. This job classification is subject to the requirements and Code of Conduct for all Ellis County employees. This position serves at the discretion of the Presiding Judge of this court.
Responsibilities
- Machine Shorthand verbatim record of court proceedings
- Transcribe all court records on appeal in accordance with the approved format manual and appellate guidelines
- E-file all appellate records with the courts of appeal in a timely manner
- Provide written transcripts upon proper request
- Maintain an accurate proceedings log
- Preserve shorthand notes for future reference, per statutory guidelines
- Mark, retain, and properly transfer/file all exhibits
- Maintain certification requirements
- Administrative, secretarial, and clerical work for the Court
- Assist and interact with attorneys, the public, staff, and other co-workers
- Provide accurate information related to court hearings, trials, and dockets
- Regular and reliable attendance and timeliness
- Schedule a Certified Shorthand Reporter to effectively serve the Court in your absence
- Comply with the Code of Ethics for certified court reporters, the Judicial Code of Ethics, and statutorily required duties
- May serve as a liaison to other courts, attorneys, judges, other County departments, officials, staff, and general public
- Serve as a temporary or back-up Certified Court Reporter for other Ellis County courts as directed by the Presiding Judge
- Assist the Judge and Court Coordinator in court related duties
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Current certification by the State of Texas for qualification and proficiency as a Certified Shorthand Reporter
- Possess and provide own equipment necessary to fulfill court reporting duties, e.g. stenographic machine, computer, software, and reference materials
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- Proven ability to coordinate, schedule, and prioritize responsibilities
- Proficient with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and other office related programs
- Ability to operate a personal computer, copier, and other office equipment
- Capable of writing, speaking, and editing with correct English grammar, spelling, and vocabulary, including medical and legal terminology
- Able to sit and listen attentively during hearings and trials
- Perform effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment while maintaining a professional demeanor
- Continue professional development through continuing education
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships
- Frequent contact and communication with persons accused or convicted of a crime
- Ability to understand and comply with written and oral directives, protocols, and procedures
- Working knowledge of court procedures, terminology, record keeping procedures, court decorum, and Texas law
- Knowledge of laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines related to court reporting services
- Maintain a high level of confidentiality
- Capable of patiently, professionally, and courteously responding to telephone calls and in-person inquiries
- Must be committed to excellence in assigned duties and public interactions
Nice-to-haves
- Two (2) years of experience as a Certified Court Reporter
- Graduation from an accredited Court Reporting school
- Real Time reporting capability
- Some higher education
- Experience in a courtroom setting
- Familiarity with criminal law and criminal issues
- Experience in a professional office setting
- Proficiency in Time Matters or some similar program
- High competency with Real Time
Benefits
- Ellis County employees accrue vacation/leave/holidays as outlined in the County Handbook and as designated by the Commissioner's Court
