Why is it important for a court reporter to avoid personal interpretations of spoken words?

It is essential for a court reporter to avoid personal interpretations of spoken words to ensure that the official record accurately reflects what was said during the proceedings. The primary role of a court reporter is to create an impartial and precise transcription of verbal exchanges, thereby capturing the intended meaning of the speakers without infusing the reporter's own biases or perspectives.

By maintaining this level of objectivity, the court reporter fulfills the obligation to provide an accurate and reliable document that can be used as a reference in legal contexts. This accuracy is crucial not only for the legal proceedings themselves but also for any subsequent appeals or reviews of the case, where the exact wording and intent behind statements can have significant implications. Ultimately, adhering to this standard upholds the integrity of the legal process and ensures that all parties can trust the authenticity of the recorded dialogues.