Legal Definitions - transcription

Transcription refers to the process of converting spoken words or recorded audio into a written or typed document. It also refers to the resulting written document itself, which serves as a verbatim record of the original audio or speech.

• Example 1: Courtroom Proceedings

  During a criminal trial, a court reporter meticulously records all spoken words, including witness testimonies, lawyers' arguments, and the judge's instructions. Later, these shorthand notes or audio recordings are converted into a complete, typed document that accurately reflects everything said in court.

  This illustrates transcription because the spoken dialogue from the trial is being transformed into a permanent written record. The final typed document, often called a transcript, is the product of this transcription process and is essential for appeals or future legal reference.

• Example 2: Legal Depositions

  In a civil lawsuit, a witness might give a deposition, where they answer questions under oath outside of court. An audio recording is made of the entire session. Afterward, a specialized service listens to the recording and types out every word spoken by the attorneys and the witness, creating a detailed written record.

  Here, the act of converting the recorded audio of the deposition into a written document is transcription. The resulting written document, which provides a precise record of the witness's testimony, is also referred to as a transcription and is used by legal teams to prepare for trial.

• Example 3: Intercepted Communications

  Law enforcement agencies might obtain a warrant to record phone calls or other electronic communications from a suspect. To analyze the content and use it as evidence, investigators will have these audio recordings converted into written text, often noting who is speaking and the exact time each statement was made.

  This demonstrates transcription as the process of turning recorded audio evidence into a readable, written format. The written document allows legal professionals to easily review the conversations, identify key statements, and present them clearly in court.