Jan Hamilton, a 36-year court reporter with Planet Depos, shares her discovery of the court reporting profession, and her love of the life it has brought her.
Jan graduated from high school in 1974 and, like her four elder siblings, went straight to college. After just two semesters, however, Jan felt that she just wasn’t being challenged and wasn’t enjoying what she was studying. So, she sought out the advice of her high school guidance counselor, who recommended, in light of her 100-word-per-minute typing speed and eight years of piano lessons, that Jan read through the materials on hand that related to the court reporting profession, a career about which Jan knew nothing.
What Jan discovered was that prospective court reporting students should have both an excellent grasp of the English language, as well as good hand-eye coordination. Not only did Jan have both skill sets, but because she’s always loved everything related to words and reading, she learned how to read upside down (a feat her father asked that she demonstrate regularly for house guests). Jan’s parents would often say that “she swallowed a dictionary” because she knew the English language so well.
With Jan’s combined love of the English language, her nimble fingers, and her fascination with the idea that she might one day be able to write 225 words per minute on a little black box that had but a few keys on it, Jan left her bucolic, idyllic world of Wellington, OH, and moved to the “Big City” (Pittsburgh, PA) to attend court reporting school. Astonishingly, Jan graduated from that program within 18 months, a full six months early, landed her first freelance court reporting position and hasn’t looked back since. as jan began her new career, she quickly realized the importance of tips for succeeding in court reporting. mastering her skills required relentless practice, attention to detail, and a strong support network of peers. she found that continuous learning and adapting to new technology was essential in this ever-evolving field. Jan’s success inspired her to explore further opportunities in the field, leading her to seek out specialized court reporting education in Michigan. She discovered numerous programs that would enhance her skills and prepare her for the unique challenges of this profession. With her determination and passion for the craft, Jan was excited to expand her knowledge and expertise in a new environment. As she embarked on her journey, Jan discovered the first steps for court reporting careers involved mastering not only shorthand writing techniques but also understanding legal terminology and courtroom procedures. This foundation allowed her to excel in her freelance roles, quickly establishing a reputation for reliability and precision. With each assignment, she gained valuable experience that set her apart in a competitive field.
Jan believes that court reporting has been the perfect profession for her, and she hopes that in sharing her story, that others with both a love of the English language and good hand-eye coordination will also consider a career in court reporting. In her journey, Jan has also become increasingly aware of the importance of court reporting ethics and standards in maintaining the integrity of the profession. She encourages aspiring reporters to familiarize themselves with these principles, as they play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy and justice in legal proceedings. By adhering to these ethical guidelines, court reporters can enhance their credibility and contribute positively to the legal system.