How should a court reporter handle a disruptive attorney during proceedings?

Remaining neutral and documenting the behavior without taking sides unless directed by the judge is the most appropriate approach for a court reporter managing a disruptive attorney during proceedings. This choice reflects the ethical obligation of court reporters to maintain impartiality and professionalism in the courtroom. By documenting the conduct accurately, the court reporter ensures that a complete and accurate record of the proceedings is preserved, which is essential for any potential appeals or reviews of the case.

Additionally, the court reporter should follow the direction of the judge, as the judge is the authority within the courtroom and is responsible for managing courtroom decorum. By refraining from taking sides or directly confronting the attorney, the court reporter avoids escalating the situation and remains a neutral observer, which is crucial to uphold the integrity of the court proceedings.

The other options carry inherent risks or may compromise the court reporter's professional responsibilities. Direct confrontation of the attorney could disrupt the proceedings further and may undermine the reporter's role in maintaining a neutral record. Ignoring the behavior might neglect the need to address it properly, which could influence the courtroom atmosphere negatively. Reporting to the Bar Association, while a serious action, should not be the first step in handling misconduct and typically involves a more formal process that is better suited for severe or chronic issues rather