Legal Definitions - transcribe

To transcribe means to create a written or typed copy of spoken words or sounds. It involves converting audio into a text format, ensuring an accurate record of what was said.

Here are some examples of how the term applies in legal and related contexts:

• Example 1: During a deposition, a court reporter meticulously listens to the witness's answers and types them out in real-time. The resulting document, which contains every word spoken, is a transcript of the deposition.

  Explanation: This illustrates transcribing because the court reporter is converting the spoken testimony of the witness into a precise written record, which is crucial for legal proceedings.

• Example 2: A paralegal is assigned to review an audio recording of a lengthy client interview. To make the information more accessible for the attorney and easier to reference, the paralegal listens to the recording and types out all the spoken dialogue into a detailed document.

  Explanation: Here, the paralegal is transcribing the client interview by transforming the spoken conversation from the audio file into a written document for the legal team's use.

• Example 3: In a criminal investigation, detectives obtain a recording of a suspect's phone call. To analyze the conversation for potential evidence and to present it clearly in court, an administrative assistant is tasked with listening to the entire call and typing out every word spoken by all parties involved.

  Explanation: This scenario demonstrates transcribing as the spoken content of the phone call is converted into a written document, making it a tangible piece of evidence that can be reviewed and used in legal proceedings.