Legal Definitions - reporter's record

A reporter's record is the official, word-for-word written account of everything that was said during a legal proceeding, such as a trial, hearing, or deposition. It is meticulously prepared by a court reporter, who uses specialized equipment to capture all spoken words, including witness testimony, lawyers' arguments, and the judge's rulings and instructions. This comprehensive document serves as the authoritative transcript of the event and is essential for appellate review or any situation requiring an exact record of what transpired.

Here are some examples of how a reporter's record is used:

• Appealing a Trial Verdict: Imagine a defendant is convicted in a criminal trial and believes there were legal errors made by the judge or prosecutor. To challenge the conviction, the defendant's attorney will order the reporter's record from the trial court. This detailed transcript allows the appellate court to review every statement, question, answer, objection, and ruling that occurred during the trial to determine if any reversible errors were made. Without this precise record, the appellate court would not have an accurate basis to evaluate the appeal.

• Preparing for a Civil Lawsuit: In a personal injury case, a key witness might give a deposition, which is an out-of-court sworn testimony. A court reporter is present to create a reporter's record of the entire deposition. Later, if the witness's testimony at trial differs from their deposition, lawyers can use the reporter's record to highlight inconsistencies, challenge the witness's credibility, or refresh their memory. The exact wording captured in the record is crucial for these purposes.

• Documenting a Judge's Ruling: During a complex business dispute, attorneys might argue a motion before a judge regarding the admissibility of certain evidence. The judge then delivers an oral ruling from the bench, explaining the decision and the reasons behind it. The reporter's record captures the judge's exact words, ensuring that all parties have an undeniable account of the ruling, its scope, and the judge's rationale. This prevents misunderstandings and provides a clear basis for future actions in the case.