What is the primary role of a court reporter?

The primary role of a court reporter is to create verbatim transcripts of proceedings. This involves meticulously recording everything spoken during court sessions, including testimonies, objections, and judicial remarks. By providing a precise and complete written record, court reporters ensure that there is an accurate account of what transpired during legal proceedings, which is essential for appeals and future references.

This function is critical in the legal system, as it supports the right to a fair trial by providing an official record that can be reviewed if necessary. The transcripts created can be used in appeals, ensuring that the judicial process is transparent and accountable.

The other roles listed do not accurately reflect the core responsibilities of a court reporter. Being a witness or advising attorneys falls outside the scope of a court reporter's duties, which are focused on documentation rather than participation in the case itself. Summarizing court proceedings does not fulfill the requirement for accuracy and completeness that a verbatim transcript provides.