What does the term "real-time reporting" refer to in court reporting?

The term "real-time reporting" in court reporting specifically refers to the immediate transcription of spoken words into text format. This process allows court reporters to provide an instantaneous written representation of the proceedings as they are taking place, which can be crucial for various legal and procedural needs.

Real-time reporting enables attorneys, judges, and other participants in the courtroom to view the text as it is being transcribed, facilitating immediate access to the proceedings and enhancing the flow of communication. This technology relies on specialized software and equipment that converts the spoken word into readable text almost simultaneously.

In contrast, the preparation of transcripts after the proceedings involves creating documents that reflect what occurred during the trial, but this does not provide the immediate accessibility that real-time reporting does. The creation of audio recordings and the use of video technology during trials are valuable tools but serve different purposes, focusing on preservation and display of the proceedings rather than the live transcription aspect that defines real-time reporting.