How To Become Legal Transcriptionist

Legal professionals have a diverse range of job titles to pursue, with several options available for those seeking a career in this field. Those with an eye for detail and exceptional typing skills may find success as legal transcriptionists, a pivotal role in ensuring accurate documentation of crucial courtroom and legal recordings. In this editorial, we elucidate the nature of this occupation and provide guidance on how to embark on a career as a legal transcriptionist.

What is a legal transcriptionist?

The duty of a legal transcriptionist is to transcribe significant legal recordings into written records. They utilize their proficiency in typing and listening to produce written documents that legal professionals can use for reference purposes. As the sole individual in charge of creating typed versions of pre-recorded materials, they are not tasked with generating written records of live conversations, unlike court reporters. This means that they have the luxury of time to produce meticulously written and error-free transcriptions.

What do legal transcriptionists do?

The primary responsibilities of a legal transcriptionist entail the following duties:

Carefully listen to dictated recordings made by legal professionals, such as attorneys and paralegals.
Transcribe recorded materials into a diverse range of legal documents, including but not limited to pleadings, correspondence, motions, time entries, legal memorandums, interrogations, agreements, and discovery documents.
Produce documents that are free from any errors and can be used as future reference materials by legal professionals.
Utilize headsets and specialized computer software to listen to recorded materials and generate transcriptions.
Confer with legal professionals to receive dictation that is to be presented in court.

What is the average salary for a legal transcriptionist?

On a national level, a legal transcriptionist can expect to earn an average salary of $36,352 per year. However, the actual salary one may receive can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, level of experience, skill set, and employer. This job may offer several advantages, such as work-from-home opportunities, flexible schedules, health insurance, paid time off, and support for professional development.

Legal transcriptionist skills

To excel as a legal transcriptionist, you must possess the following skills:

Attention to detail: As a legal transcriptionist, it is crucial to create error-free legal documents.
Computer skills: Being proficient in using word processors, billing software and spreadsheets is important as most tasks in this role require computer usage.
Knowledge of legal terminology: Familiarity with legal jargon is necessary to ensure accurate transcriptions.
Language skills: Having a strong grasp of the English language, including grammar, spelling, and syntax, is essential.
Listening: Since the role requires transcribing recordings, you must have excellent listening skills to be able to understand every word spoken.
Time management: Successful legal transcriptionists must be able to prioritize their work and meet deadlines, ensuring legal professionals can access necessary documents in time for court.
Typing: You should aim to be a fast and efficient typist, with a target of 85 words per minute, free from any errors.

How to become a legal transcriptionist

Here are the steps to becoming a legal transcriptionist:

1. Obtain a degree

While a high school diploma and experience in a legal or office setting may suffice for an entry-level role, it's advisable to earn a degree. Consider enrolling in a legal transcriptionist program or earning an Associate Degree in Legal Transcription Technology from a community college, vocational school, or technical school. These programs teach you court reporting theory, word processing, editing for transcription, and legal dictionary building.

2. Sharpen your skills:

To become a successful legal transcriptionist, you need to practice your listening and typing skills. Practice transcribing recordings, typing without looking at the keyboard, and trying to type accurately at a faster pace. You can time yourself to assess your progress and include this skill on your resume.

3. Get certified

You can differentiate yourself from other candidates by obtaining a Certified Electronic Transcriber (CET) designation from the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT). The CET requires passing a knowledge test covering formatting, proofreading, court procedures and practices, and vocabulary, followed by a practical exam involving creating a 10 to 15-page transcription of a recorded proceeding.

4. Receive on-the-job training

Entry-level legal transcriptionists usually receive training on the job from office managers, paralegals, or attorneys. Pay close attention, take notes, and ask relevant questions to acquire the skills and knowledge required for this role.

5. Continue your education

To maintain your certification as a legal transcriptionist, you need to renew it every three years by completing three continuing education credits and remaining in good standing with the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT). Renewing your certification can help you pursue more advanced roles and opportunities for growth in your career. You can also consider taking additional courses or workshops to improve your skills and stay up-to-date with changes and advancements in the legal field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a legal transcriptionist can be a lucrative and rewarding career choice for those who enjoy working with legal documents and have excellent typing skills. With the rise in demand for legal transcription services, there has never been a better time to pursue this profession.

To become a legal transcriptionist on UpMyChain, it is important to have a solid understanding of legal terminology, court procedures, and documentation. It is also essential to have excellent typing skills and proficiency in using transcription software.

If you are interested in becoming a legal transcriptionist, there are several steps you can take to get started. These include enrolling in a legal transcription course, gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, and building a strong portfolio of work.

Easy Answer

What is a legal transcriptionist?
What do legal transcriptionists do?
What is the average salary for a legal transcriptionist?
Legal transcriptionist skills
How to become a legal transcriptionist
1. Obtain a degree
2. Sharpen your skills
3. Get certified
4. Receive on-the-job training
5. Continue your education
Conclusion

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