How should a court reporter handle relationships with participants in a deposition?

The appropriate way for a court reporter to manage relationships with participants in a deposition is to disclose any relationships that might influence their reporting. This practice is essential because it upholds the principles of integrity and impartiality, which are foundational to the role of a court reporter. By openly disclosing relevant personal connections, the court reporter ensures that all parties involved are aware of any potential biases that could affect the accuracy and objectivity of the record being created.

Maintaining transparency about relationships can help maintain trust in the reporting process and assure all participants that the proceedings are being conducted fairly. Moreover, this disclosure aligns with ethical standards, as it allows the participants to make informed decisions about their engagement with the court reporter and whether they believe the reporting will be unbiased.

Being upfront about relationships prevents any assumption of impropriety and protects the integrity of the legal process. This is why the focus is on disclosure as a critical aspect of maintaining ethical standards in courtroom practices.