The court reporting industry is at a tipping point. Some might say well beyond the tipping point. 

 With the number of certified stenographic court reporters in the U.S. declining from 32,000 in 2013 to 23,000 in 2023, as noted in this industry snapshot by the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers, courts are facing a critical challenge: how to ensure accurate, reliable records when stenographic methods can't keep up with demand.

Education of Stenographers graph

A Shortage with Real Consequences

Becoming a stenographic court reporter requires long, expensive training—a barrier for many younger professionals. Meanwhile, the demand for court reporters continues to grow, creating delays, higher costs, and uncertainty for litigants and legal professionals.

As Brandon Greenblatt, CEO of Remote Legal, told Law.com, "Most people who are young and looking for professions are not pursuing something that is perceived to be going away. And I also think the younger generation just is more inclined to use methods that are more tech enabled."

Technology Is Stepping In

Digital and audio-based reporting methods have emerged as viable methods. These methods allow trained operators to produce accurate, reliable transcripts quickly and efficiently. Yet, courts are grappling with their legal status.

Recent cases highlight this uncertainty. In Texas, a trial court barred a deposition transcript prepared using a tech-based service, raising questions about admissibility. The Texas Supreme Court is now taking up the case. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, a judge allowed a similar transcript, illustrating inconsistency in the legal system.

Why Legal Recognition Matters

The shortage of stenographers is not just an industry issue—it’s an access-to-justice issue. Without recognition of modern reporting methods, courts risk delays, higher costs, and incomplete records.

The Coalition to Capture the Record advocates for clear legal standards that allow digital and audio-based reporting to be used reliably in legal proceedings. Our goal: ensure every hearing, deposition, and court proceeding is captured accurately—no matter the method.

Stenographer in court with judge

Moving Forward

Embracing expanded reporting methods does not replace stenographers—it supplements the system, addresses shortages, and leverages technology to ensure justice is served efficiently. Courts, law firms, and litigants deserve a record they can trust.