What procedure should be followed if a court reporter is approached with a request for off-the-record discussions?

The correct procedure when approached with a request for off-the-record discussions is to politely decline the request. Court reporters have a duty to maintain an accurate and complete record of all proceedings. Accepting an off-the-record discussion compromises the integrity of the official record and can lead to ethical violations. By declining, the reporter upholds their professional responsibilities and ensures that all information is documented and accessible in accordance with legal standards.

It's important for court reporters to understand that their role is to provide an unbiased and transparent record of events. Engaging in off-the-record discussions can introduce the potential for bias, misunderstandings, or manipulation of the record. Maintaining professionalism includes refusing to participate in discussions that could harm the integrity of the court's processes.

While other options may involve different approaches to handling the request, they do not prioritize the court reporter's ethical obligation to document all proceedings accurately. For example, involving the judge could distract from the proceedings, and scheduling a private meeting outside of court would still create opportunities for information to be shared that should not be recorded, undermining the report's neutrality.