What is an example of an acceptable gift for a court reporter to give?

An acceptable gift for a court reporter to give is a basket of baked goods for the break room. This type of gift is generally considered appropriate because it is low-cost, non-personal, and serves the purpose of fostering goodwill within a professional environment. Sharing treats in a communal area promotes camaraderie without creating any perception of favoritism or impropriety.

In a courtroom setting, ethical guidelines typically discourage the giving of more expensive items, such as luxury pen sets or gift cards to high-end restaurants, as these can imply a significant level of gratitude or influence that may be perceived as compromising the integrity of the reporting professional. Personal gifts, especially for judges, can also raise ethical concerns, as they may appear to create a conflict of interest or the appearance of attempting to influence judicial outcomes. Therefore, opting for something simple and meant for a group is the best practice for maintaining ethical standards in the profession.