Dennis of Portland, ME In response to your article surrounding the loss of official court reporter positions in Maine, it is important that the public and the legislature consider the consequences of this action. One major consequence is the loss of a quality record. Our appeals courts, lawyers and litigants must rely on an accurate record of a proceeding. If a record is not absolutely accurate and certified, how can an appeals court do its’ job if it cannot rely on what was actually said at a trial or proceeding.

The preservation of a court record is extremely important to the public. Court reporters are highly trained professionals and the Maine officials have vast experience in producing a timely, quality product to the citizens of this state. This is not a luxury to the taxpayers. They produce an instantaneous record in multiple formats using state of the art technology and continually purchase and update professional software and equipment.

As to cost savings, replacing reporters requires a minimum of 2 additional employees; a clerk to monitor the machine and another employee to locate and listen to the proceeding, transcribing from tape which may or may not be legible. This is a time-consuming process. As guardians of the record, the court reporter provides an accurate, professionally prepared record as well as an invaluable service to the public and the court.

Citizens expect integrity in their courts. Stenographers provide a record of integrity in a cost efficient manner.

Dennis Ford
President, Maine Court Reporters Associationreport abuse

Bole of Augusta, ME I don't think the machine will call out "please repeat that , I didn't quite catch it". Also, if testimony needs to be repeated from 20 minutes ago or last week, how long will it take to find it? Who will operate it, the judge?report abuse

Jean Allen of Winthrop, ME More than likely the courts will contract out to have someone transcribe what is recorded on the machine. That will cost more money than the employee they'll get rid of. It is a visious cycle. Lay people off who are making money to stimulate the economy. Yeah, I can see that work, Not.report abuse

FRANCO of RICHMOND, ME more people out of work...when will it stop???report abuse