How can a court reporter avoid conflicts of interest?

A court reporter can avoid conflicts of interest primarily by disclosing any potential conflicts to the parties involved. This practice fosters transparency and ensures that all parties are aware of any relationships or circumstances that might influence the reporter’s impartiality. By informing the involved parties, the court reporter establishes trust and maintains the integrity of the judicial process.

Disclosing conflicts is crucial because it allows parties to make informed decisions about how to proceed. This may include requesting a different reporter if they feel the potential conflict could impact the proceedings. Therefore, open communication about conflicts is essential for upholding ethical standards in court reporting.

The other options do not contribute effectively to conflict avoidance. Favoring one party's interests clearly undermines the impartiality that a court reporter must maintain. Keeping all information confidential is important, but it does not address the underlying issue of potential conflicts—disclosure is key to resolving those conflicts. Not attending social events with lawyers may reduce the chance of personal ties influencing the reporter’s work, but it is not a comprehensive method for managing potential conflicts. Overall, disclosure is the most proactive and effective strategy to maintain ethical standards and foster a fair judicial environment.