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While some consider the court reporting field in jeopardy
because of technology, Melissa Clagg, instructor for the Court
Reporting Services of Illinois, said this is far from true.
“I heard that 40 years ago, and we know technology has advanced
but it’s nowhere near the accuracy that needs to happen in a
court of law for somebody’s case,” Clagg told The Center Square.
Over a period of two years, she said the training will get
students ready for careers as courthouse reporters, which are
especially needed in Illinois.
“We have a little over 500 positions, and of those, a little
over 100 are vacant,” Clagg said.
Clagg is signed on as an instructor/recruiter for the classes
offered by the Court Reporting Services of Illinois. The spring
pilot program recently started in Urbana but the fall program is
another opportunity for those who apply by April 30.
Clagg, who spent 33 years at the Champaign County Courthouse,
remembers the excitement of the court cases and described the
field as “very rewarding.”
Like many potential students, Clagg didn’t know anything about
court reporting when her guidance counselor suggested it years
ago due to her typing speed.
“This will be a good field for a lot of people. It’s just
something that for whatever reason people don’t necessarily
think of,” she said.
Those who complete the approximately two-year, tuition-free
program won’t have to worry about getting work. According to
Clagg, “We also guarantee job placement once they complete our
course, and they pass the speed test.”
While the pilot program started in Urbana, there’s hope of
expanding the opportunity throughout the state, Clagg said.
To learn details and how to sign up for fall classes, visit the
Court Reporting Services website at ilcrs.com.
Court Reporting Services is the administrative office that
oversees court reporting services for Illinois trial courts.
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