What should court reporters do if they encounter a technical issue during a recording?

When court reporters encounter a technical issue during a recording, notifying the judge and pausing proceedings if necessary is the most appropriate action. This approach ensures that all parties involved are aware of the issue and allows for a proper resolution. It helps maintain the integrity of the record, as any technical problems could affect the quality of the transcription and the overall legal proceedings.

By pausing and communicating the issue, court reporters uphold their ethical responsibilities and professional standards, ensuring that the court can make informed decisions about how to proceed. In situations where the recording is compromised, it's crucial for court reporters to be transparent, allowing for proper measures to be taken, whether that involves troubleshooting the issue or opting for alternative methods of recording.

This action demonstrates professionalism and respect for the legal process, as it prioritizes accurate and reliable documentation, which is a core responsibility of court reporters.