Time Management for Court Reporters

Generally, court reporters create their own schedules when managing deadlines. This flexibility can include responsibilities that make it difficult to stay organized, so here are a few tips to help you stay on top of your daily assignments. Tip#1-Take Time to Plan Planning for the day ahead is essential. Working from a checklist and prioritizing […]
Verbatim vs Non-Verbatim Transcripts

Whenever court reporters are hired, it is important to inform them about the type of transcription required be it verbatim or non-verbatim. Verbatim transcription is the process of converting all audible statements from audio or video files into the written format – and non-verbatim transcription is a cleaner and more readable text produced from the […]
The Importance Of Certified Transcripts Over Rough Drafts

Legal transcripts play an important role in the flow of legal information during the legal process. Lawyers rely heavily on legal transcripts to plan cases and construct winning strategies. But certified legal transcripts can also be quite expensive – opting for a cheaper draft is not uncommon. That is where ‘rough drafts’ come into play, […]
Data Migration Tips For Law Firms

Legal firms are exploring new software implementation programs to keep up with the demands of a (post-pandemic) digitally accelerated work environment. In doing so, professionals are encouraged to cooperate with the firm’s data migration plans. OTR has compiled some tips for minimizing disruption and maintaining data quality in the transition to a new practice management […]
Common Injuries Court Reporters Face And How They Can Be Avoided

Repetitive strain injuries are fairly common in a workspace especially if employees have been doing the tasks/motions for several years. Unfortunately, court reporters are not excused from this wear and tear. Strain injuries can happen in the neck, back and arms often from sitting for long hours in front of a computer. It is important […]
How To Get Through A Long And Tedious Examination

An examination for discovery is an important part of almost every civil lawsuit. It is not a trial but rather a pre-trial process in which lawyers for each of the parties question other parties or their employees, under oath, about the matters involved in the lawsuit. Examinations can be anywhere from a few hours to […]
5 Ways To Speed Up Payment Processes In Legal Firms

Running a legal firm, large or small, is not easy. Many firms report that their biggest challenges involve slow payment times and uncollected money sitting in their accounts receivable (AR). OTR has put together some strategies that businesses can use in order to speed up the process. Encourage Online Payments Electronic payments put both parties at […]
Why Data Security Is Important For Court Reporters

It is fairly common for court reporting firms to handle sensitive and confidential information regularly through examinations, trials and mediations. These transcripts are then sent via e-mail as well as through post to the parties involved. Reporters have a duty to make sure that these transcripts are stored securely on electronic devices. OTR has compiled […]
Conducting Effective Remote Examinations For Discovery In 2022

Although Ontario’s reopening plan is in full effect and much of the restrictions have been lifted, the legal industry continues to hold virtual examinations whenever possible as it saves time, costs, and resources. OTR has put together some of the best practices to conduct remote examinations with optimal results. Collaboration is key Early agreement between […]
How court reporters can overcome digital fatigue

In response to the covid-19 pandemic, many firms across Canada (and globally) have adopted a digital-first remote working environment. The legal industry has followed suit and continues to have examinations for discovery online with court reporters working remotely at all times. ‘Digital fatigue’ is a state of mental exhaustion which is a side effect of […]