What does "real-time transcription" mean in the context of court reporting?

In the context of court reporting, "real-time transcription" refers to the process of transcribing speech into text simultaneously as it is spoken. This allows for immediate access to the spoken words in a written format, which is critical in legal settings where accurate and timely documentation is essential.

Real-time transcription utilizes specialized equipment and software that captures the speech through steno keyboards or digital recording devices and converts it into text that is displayed on a screen in real time. This immediacy is particularly valuable during trials or hearings, where attorneys, judges, and other participants can read the transcript as proceedings unfold, facilitating better engagement and decision-making.

Other options reflect different processes related to transcription and recording but do not capture the essence of real-time transcription. For instance, transcribing speech after it has been spoken, editing transcripts, or merely recording audio without transcription do not provide the immediate availability and accuracy essential to the real-time transcription process.