After more than 20 years of supporting clients, Sheri Bell Reporting has made a strategic decision to align her services with Aptus Court Reporting.
SAN DIEGO – After more than 20 years of steadfastly supporting clients as Sheri Bell Reporting, Ms. Bell has made a strategic decision to align her esteemed reporting services with Aptus Court Reporting, effective January 2024. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both Sheri Bell Reporting and Aptus Court Reporting, as they join forces to strengthen their commitment to delivering unparalleled court reporting solutions.
Having fostered and maintained longstanding relationships with many members of the Aptus Court Reporting team, Sheri Bell embraces this partnership with enthusiasm. Both companies share core values, a dedication to the court reporting profession, and a relentless focus on providing exceptional client service.
Sheri Bell will continue to play a pivotal role in the business, leveraging the support of a larger and more robust team. This move is expected to bring about numerous advantages for clients, including complimentary access to conference rooms throughout California, extended coverage across the nation and globally, as well as an overall enhancement of services and products.
Aptus Court Reporting, with offices conveniently located in San Francisco, Oakland, Fresno, Riverside, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Irvine, and headquartered in San Diego, is well-positioned to provide top-notch court reporting services across the state and beyond.
Sandy Waite, Chief Operating Officer at Aptus Court Reporting, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Sheri Bell Reporting into the Aptus family. I have known Sheri professionally for over 30 years, and her firm’s reputation for excellence in court reporting aligns seamlessly with our commitment to delivering exceptional services. Together, we are poised to set new standards in the industry.”
Sheri Bell shared her excitement about the merger, stating, “Joining forces with Aptus Court Reporting is an exciting chapter for me. I believe this partnership will not only enhance the support we provide to our clients but also open up new avenues for growth and innovation. I am eager to continue delivering the high-quality reporting services our clients have come to expect, now with the added strength of the Aptus team behind us.”
Sheri Bell Reporting clients and partners alike can look forward to an even more robust and comprehensive suite of court reporting solutions, solidifying the commitment to excellence that both Sheri Bell Reporting and Aptus Court Reporting uphold.
About Aptus Court Reporting
Aptus Court Reporting is a full-service court reporting firm and a leading provider of court reporting services and litigation technology. With headquarters in San Diego, CA, and offices throughout California, Aptus provides a one-stop solution for deposition and trial needs with services including court reporting, transcription, videography, deposition technology, world-wide conference rooms, and more. For more information about Aptus Court Reporting, visit www.AptusCR.com.
An attorney has many choices when it comes to choosing a court reporter. Here are our tips for choosing the best court reporter for your case’s needs.
1. Choose a Certified Reporter
Court reporters go through extensive training before becoming certified. When choosing a court reporter, it’s important to consider the type of training the reporter underwent as well as whether they passed the three-part licensing exam. The most reputable court reporters attend a state-approved school, requiring three to four years of training, and hold memberships in professional organizations.
2. Choose an Experienced Reporter
What does a court reporter do? is not as simple a question as attorneys may think. Some court reporters handle only trials, while others only have experience at depositions. When choosing a court reporter, it’s important to confirm the type of services a court reporter provides. Ask the reporter if they have a preference and determine whether that works for your particular case. At Aptus Court Reporting, our Calendar and Client Services team brings over 35 years of commitment and attentiveness to your deposition calendar. We provide not only trial and deposition services, but dedicated case management, online scheduling, and location research.
3. Choose a Reporter with Industry-Standard Fees
Some court reporters charge a rate per page, while others charge appearance fees. These costs vary depending on the region or state and on the types of services provided. Keep in mind that additional services may be included in the fee. For example, a freelance court reporter may charge the lowest rate per page, but you will not have the benefit of case management, online scheduling, or a complimentary space to prep a witness or hold your deposition.
4. Choose a Reporter with Flexible Availability
Having a court reporter who can be available after business hours or provide expedited services is invaluable. It is reassuring to know the reporter will be available whenever you need them. Larger court reporter companies, like Aptus, have a plethora of reporters ready to serve their client’s needs and, consequently, provide unmatched availability.
5. Choose a Reporter That Uses Technology Effectively
Electronic exhibits, remote depositions, streaming text, document sharing—technology is used in all aspects of court reporting. In this day and age, you must choose a firm that can keep up with changing times. At Aptus, we are at the forefront of litigation technology. We provide free and instant access to an online case portal and online management of calendar settings, transcripts, exhibits, and invoices—plus personal technical assistance. We use industry-standard software like Aptus Capture, vTestify, and LiveLitigation to provide the most up-to-date services.
6. Choose a Reporter That Goes Above and Beyond
With a complex case, your firm may need a wide array of deposition locations. Perhaps you need more than one conference room. Aptus provides complimentary mediation and trial conference rooms to cover your deposition or hearing. We also provide a Client Services Team that can help research locations if your case requires out of town depositions, leaving more time to focus on litigation.
7. Choose Aptus Court Reporting
Many large and well-respected firms regularly use Aptus’ services for their court reporting needs. Recently, we were able to assist with the presentation of hundreds of pieces of evidence for a bench trial within a few hours time. If we can handle the complex cases, rest assured we can handle any case. Call Aptus today at 866-999-8310.
The production of transcripts of legal processes is the principal responsibility of court reporters. It includes both in-court hearings and out-of-court depositions. However, the output of correct transcripts is insufficient; there are other ethical issues that court reporters need to consider to preserve the honor of their profession and stay compliant. This article explains how accountability for professional integrity for court reporters is so critical to the legal process.
The Importance of the Court Reporter’s Role
The court reporter has to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the legal process as the official record-keeper of court proceedings. They are trained professionals who use specialized equipment to record everything said in court verbatim.
Court reporters also ensure accurate records by using their specialized skills to produce documents written with clear words and sentences. When lawyers or judges make decisions about cases utilizing the information they heard during hearings, they need clear and readable records.
The National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) Sets Standards for Court Reporters
The NCRA is a professional association for court reporters in the United States. The NCRA promotes integrity, ethics, and professionalism among its members. The NCRA has a code of conduct that should be adhered to by all members.
This code includes standards for ethical behavior, such as honesty, fairness, and respect for others. Violating the code of conduct can result in disciplinary action from the NCRA, including expulsion from the organization.
Capturing and Maintaining an Unbiased Record
Court reporters play an essential role in any legal system by providing an accurate record of proceedings. To maintain the integrity of this record, court reporters must adhere to a strict code of ethics. This code includes principles such as honesty, impartiality, confidentiality, and accuracy. A court reporter should also be able to listen well, understand English grammar, and take notes accurately and quickly.
Remaining Impartial
Court reporters must be impartial, meaning they cannot have any personal stake in the proceedings’ outcomes. They must also report on proceedings objectively, without any personal biases or opinions getting in the way. Additionally, court reporters must keep confidential information confidential. It includes not only information presented in court but also the information they may learn about the parties involved outside of court.
Avoiding Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest exists when a court reporter has a financial or personal interest in the outcome of a proceeding. For example, a court reporter should not accept gifts from attorneys or litigants involved in a case. Additionally, court reporters should not socialize with attorneys or litigants outside of work. If you are friends with someone involved in a case, it is best to disclose this information to the attorney or judge overseeing the proceedings.
Safeguarding Transcript
Court reporters are responsible for safeguarding the accuracy of transcripts, that is, adhering to a strict code of ethics and maintaining the highest standards of integrity. Court reporters must also be impartial and objective in their work. To ensure the accuracy of transcripts, court reporters must be competent in their skills and knowledge. They must also be able to keep up with the ever-changing technology to produce accurate transcripts.
Maintain Confidentiality
You will often access sensitive information when working as a court reporter. It is essential to maintain confidentiality and not share any information you are not supposed to. The best way to do this as a reputable court reporter is to keep a professional attitude and be discreet when discussing cases with others. If you are ever in doubt about whether or not you should share something, be cautious and don’t speak up.
Aptus Court Reporting provides the most talented and trustworthy services with expert court reporters, personalized attention, and full-service court reporting coverage. Please get in touch with us to handle your case. And if you’re an experienced court reporter with top-notch integrity and expertise, talk to us too; we’ll help you put your prowess into meaningful practice.
Scheduling a deposition involves several moving parts. This can include coordinating all parties involved as well as selecting the right location, setting up special services, and making sure all the necessary technology is available. When scheduling a deposition, here are several steps to follow:
Make Sure to Schedule Ahead
The further ahead a deposition is scheduled, the easier it is to organize. Locations can change, start times can change and even witnesses can change, but having the date on the books will give greater flexibility for accommodating those variables . This is especially true if a deposition is taking place out of state. This may require scheduling several months in advance to secure the location and resource(s).
Why the Deponent is Important
It’s important to take into consideration the individual being deposed. Is it a doctor, the plaintiff, or an expert in a specialized field? This will enable the reporting service to choose the right reporter for the deposition. The best reporter should always be matched to the individual giving the deposition. Some reporters have a better understanding of certain technical or medical terms. It’s also important to remember that the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure states that deponents must receive an appropriate notice of when and where a deposition will take place.
Are Additional Services Needed?
It’s necessary to know exactly what types of equipment will be needed and what the technical requirements will be. Will there be a need to have access to copiers, scanners, or printers? Is anyone appearing remotely? Do you need realtime or a videographer? Is the venue close to convenient parking or public transportation?
Estimate the Duration
Will more than one day be needed? Letting your provider know if a deposition will go into consecutive days might allow the same reporter to complete all the sessions. While the laws regarding the length of a deposition are different in each state, the Rules of Civil Procedure (rule 30(d)) limits a deposition to seven hours in one day.
Consider What Access will be Needed
After the deposition, you’ll want quick and easy access to the transcript and exhibits. Make sure the deposition service you’re using provides online access/an online repository. It’s also important to note that the transcript turnaround time can vary considerable with different reporting agencies. If you need your final transcript outside of that standard turnaround time, discuss this at the time of scheduling.
Aptus Court Reporting provides global court reporting solutions with state-of-the-art technology and a team of highly trained professionals. Contact Aptus Court Reporting for more information.
Photo by Brittney Butler on Unsplash
(PR Web) San Francisco, CA -Aptus Court Reporting, the West Coast’s premier deposition and court reporting service announced today the addition of industry veterans Brandon Wai and Marika Pickles serving as Directors of Business Development out of their San Francisco office.
Earlier this year Aptus Court Reporting announced a new office in California’s Central Valley (Fresno) continuing their growth strategy throughout the west coast litigation markets.
“The Bay Area has always been a high market of interest for Aptus. With the additions of Brandon Wai and Marika Pickles to an already successful team, we believe the sky is the limit. The team’s dedication to their clients coupled with our focus on customer service and technology will ultimately enhance the all-important client experience,” says Aptus President Derek Berg.
Wai has served at the Senior Account Executive level and as a Regional Litigation Consultant in the Bay Area since 2001 and brings an impressive resume. Pickles joins Aptus from a national reporting firm where she served as Senior Account Executive from 2013 through 2017.
“The addition of Brandon Wai and Marika Pickles will enhance the already-successful Northern California Aptus. Their combined experience and dedication to high-quality client service is an excellent fit for us. We are most excited to bring on this additional talent to the team,” says Ron Harrison, Managing Director, Northern California.
According to Mike Tisa, CLVS and Director of Litigation Technology for Aptus, “Consistent with our focus on trial-ready deliverables, trial presentation and technology services, these additions to the Aptus team will further set us apart as the technology leader.”
About Aptus Court Reporting:
Since launching in San Diego in 2011, Aptus has expanded its territory throughout the West Coast of the US, with local offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Sacramento, Irvine, Riverside, Fresno and Seattle. The firm provides a wide range of services globally with clients on five continents.
Aptus Court Reporting is a full-service court reporting firm and a leading provider of court reporting services and litigation technology. They provide a one-stop solution for deposition and trial needs with services including court reporting, transcription, videography, video streaming, worldwide conference rooms, and more. The company’s mission is to “Connect Testimony with Technology.” For more information about Aptus Court Reporting, please browse our website.
A court reporter possesses an essential set of unique skills and plays an important role in the legal system. The following are four specialized skills a court reporter brings to the case.
1. Mastery of Grammar and Language
Court reporters have an extensive mastery of language, grammar, and vocabulary. They transcribe what was said accurately to eliminate any possible future misunderstandings. A court reporter will also be able to instantly process difficult terms while simultaneously keeping up with the ongoing dialogue. Since court reporters use shorthand almost as a second language, many can take dictation at the amazing speed of 200 or more words per minute.
2. Detailed Technical Knowledge
Last year, Aptus wrote about whether court reporters are now technology experts. Since that post, all items mentioned like digital exhibits and web-based video conferencing are now common place and reporters actively embrace them.
3. Real-Time Reporting
Real-time reporting is a skill that brings the translation from the reporter’s machine immediately onto a computer screen or tablet. This provides a variety of benefits. Primarily, the attorney can immediately review what’s been said. He or she can make sure any important details are clear and that the final transcript is accurate. An audio recorder can’t instantly provide a transcript and usually has an accuracy rating of less than 90%, whereas a highly skilled court reporter eliminates those issues. Court Reporters using real-time prove invaluable for an attorney during a variety of depositions and cases.
4. Court Reporters Can Reach Several Certification Levels
A court reporter can obtain extensive expertise and receive several certification levels. According to the National Court Reports Association (NCRA), reporters with a Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) certification will be able to dictate jury charge at 200 wpm and testimony at 225 wpm. A Registered Merit Reporter (RMR) certification indicates an advanced level court reporter with increased dictation speed and accuracy. The highest level of certification, a Registered Diplomate Reporter (RDR), is for leaders and consultants in the profession. There are also specialized certifications for real-time reporting and real-time captioning that a court reporter can obtain.
If you are looking to hire a court reporter with these skill sets and more, contact Aptus today for details on how we can assist you.
Last week we began sharing some great feedback that we received from a few of our professional court reporters. If you missed the first post, you can read it here at “An Interview with Aptus Court Reporters: Part I.”
Now, the conclusion of our interviews:
What makes Aptus’ clients different from other court reporting firms?
“The clients at Aptus are special to me. I actually consider some of them family and find myself eager to see them to hear updates on past cases or about their lives outside of work. It’s nice to walk into a depo with attorneys who know my name and inquire about my life as well – they care. Even though we’re all working hard, these clients always go beyond the standard pleasantries.” – Mary Rouse, CSR
“I would characterize Aptus as a reporter-driven Team, that vets their reporters and staff to provide the best reporting service in the industry, that takes pride in the details from transcripts to customer service.” – Hanna Kim, CLR, CSR
“Aptus’ clients care about Aptus and admire the business. Most of the clients I’ve experienced have a personal connection to Aptus. They’re not just a random firm that they hire.” – Claire Andrews, CSR, CLR
Are there any other notable differences that make Aptus stand out in your mind?
“As amazing as everyone at Aptus is, any reporter would be thrilled and lucky to work with Stephen. As the Director of Reporter Relations, he is your right-hand man! I am a busy working mother of three small kids, and Stephen’s patience and care while scheduling me on jobs is a blessing. Calendar clerks at other firms only care about their coverage, while Stephen takes into consideration the Aptus calendar and everyone’s personal calendars. I’m convinced he has some magic potion because I don’t know how he keeps it all straight and does it so awesomely!” – Mary Rouse, CSR
“Not only are the staff of Aptus my colleagues, but they have become my life-long friends.” – Hanna Kim, CLR, CSR
“Really, it is the way they treat their reporters; the production crew, calendar crew, billing, all have our backs. They are forgiving of us on the rare occasion when we make mistakes and keep smiles on their faces through it all! Thank you, Aptus!” – Claire Andrews, CSR, CLR
Thank YOU to the reporters who took time from their busy schedules to give us feedback on how we’re doing from the Court Reporter’s perspective! We are humbled to hear your kind words and so fortunate that we count you as part of our team.
If your firm is looking to hire a professional court reporter, please contact us so we can connect you with one of our very proficient team members.
At Aptus Court Reporting, we pride ourselves on partnering with court reporters with outstanding work ethic and who exemplify all that we strive to be as a company. We often ask our clients for feedback on how we’re doing, but this month, we took a different approach and asked our court reporters what they thought about Aptus. They had such great feedback that we decided to split it into two blog posts. Here’s what they had to say:
How did you start working with Aptus Court Reporting?
“I started working with Aptus in 2011 when I heard about a new company opening up. I am a senior-level reporter and I went over to meet and interview with Ashley and Derek in their first very small space. It was an immediate connection and I wanted to come on board. I saw their work ethic and vision and wanted to be part of this new and exciting opportunity. I am proud to say I am one of the two first reporters to start with Aptus.” – Susan Swan, RPR, CRR, CCRR
“I began working with Aptus when a fellow reporter mentioned how much she enjoyed reporting for them. As a small business owner with a few of my own loyal clients, I was ready to pass along the administrative responsibilities to an established firm so I could focus solely on reporting. I didn’t want to bring my clients just ANYWHERE, or report for just ANYONE for that matter. My ears perked when my colleague raved about how fair and trustworthy Aptus is, so I took the leap of faith and haven’t looked back….ever.” – Mary Rouse, CSR
“I was first introduced to the team when the owners of Aptus excitedly approached me in the Bay Area, to bring focus on developing relationships and work in Northern California. Derek flew up to San Francisco and personally met with me and his team to introduce Aptus to me.” – Hanna Kim, CLR, CSR
“I started working with Aptus when they were just starting in a tiny little office! I worked with them a bit and then I moved to San Francisco and connected with another firm up there. When I moved back to San Diego, I was so impressed with the growth of the company and their honesty and energy. I was excited that the timing worked well. We had a mutual appreciation that has led to a supportive relationship.” – Claire Andrews, CSR, CLR
Why do you enjoy working with Aptus?
“I started working with Aptus because I loved the energy and excitement as a new firm.
These are the things I love about Aptus:
A. Integrity. You will NEVER be told your job cancelled because calendar decided they want or need to give it to someone else. Nor will you ever get bumped off a job because the firm owner wants to take it.
B. Stephen, who runs calendar, actually cares about his reporters and will do everything he can to help and support you. Every reporter at San Diego Aptus that I know loves Stephen. His calm demeanor helps, too.
C. Production…A+ all the way. Firms may not realize how much production affects us as reporters. Sometimes we have to ask for favors because a client asked us for a favor or we need something done or copied super fast. I have always been met with a can-do attitude and that they are working with us. I’ve also seen the quality of their transcripts. They are very detail oriented and it reflects on the firm, the transcript, and the reporter. They are the most positive production team in the business!” – Susan Swan, RPR, CRR, CCRR
“Working for Aptus as a reporter is amazing! Their staff is talented in a way that sets them apart from other reporting firms I’ve worked for, in that they make me feel I’m working WITH them and not FOR them. I walk into the office and it’s always relaxed, friendly, personable, and everyone is smiling, yet everyone is working hard and professionally. You’d never know stressful deadlines are constantly being met!” – Mary Rouse, CSR
“I started when we were afforded the great opportunity to cover all the reporting needs for what became the second-longest bench trial in Marin County Superior Court history. After expert depositions, the team was able to shine by having all three sides of the case stipulate to using Aptus. It was an exciting time for all of us. Real-time, daily roughs — daily clean roughs — and expedites were just part of the formula. The Aptus team was able to provide outstanding customer service to each and every attorney, paralegal, and court staff involved. Aptus represents what I strive to be as a court reporter: professional, state-of-the-art, dedicated, and hard-working. And Aptus understands that and provides me the kind of technical work that I do best.” – Hanna Kim, CLR, CSR
“They have integrity. They are hardworking and treat their reporters well. The employees and reporters are a team. Aptus attracts some great people, which, in itself, speaks volumes.” – Claire Andrews, CSR, CLR
What tools, technology make working with Aptus easier than other court reporting firms?
“The Aptus Web portal has definitely made turning in jobs easy-peasy – click, click, click. The bonus is the pre-filled info for job turn-ins. I can even scan and upload exhibits from home.” – Mary Rouse, CSR
“In a small niche world, where technology challenges me to stay current with the most advanced real-time capabilities and interfaces, Aptus possesses a tool that is far beyond technology, and that is communication. If I am at a job, and the clients have a question or a need, I e-mail/text the team and let them know. In a moment’s notice, I will get a response, and we are able to provide the best answers and responses needed. The teamwork and communication is what makes me so proud of being part of the Aptus team.” – Hanna Kim, CLR, CSR
“Mike Tisa is so great helping with technology! Help is a phone call away. Through their attitudes and words, they give the comfort that it’s never a bother and they’re happy to help.” – Claire Andrews, CSR, CLR
Stay tuned next week when we conclude our “Interview with an Aptus Court Reporter” Series.
If your firm is looking to hire a professional court reporter, please contact us so we can connect you with one of our very proficient team members.
San Francisco, CA – (PR Web) California’s premier deposition services company, Aptus Court Reporting, is pleased to announce that Ronald Harrison has joined the team as Managing Director for the Northern California division, based out of the company’s San Francisco office.
Harrison has unparalleled experience in the court reporting industry, having served in a variety of capacities starting in 1978 with Combs & Greenley, a family owned and operated court reporting business in San Francisco. More recently, Harrison served as the Vice President of Operations for Merrill Corporation (now DTI) in San Francisco between 1998 and 2007, and in
2007 joined Esquire Deposition Services as General Manager for the San Francisco market where he spent nearly nine years cultivating new business, providing existing clients with exceptional support, and growing the company’s market share in the Bay Area.
“The Aptus team recognizes the importance of superior client service. Their enthusiasm and professionalism are infectious, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to join this great team,” says Harrison.
Sandy Waite, Aptus’ COO, states, “Harrison’s responsibilities will include expanding the Aptus presence in both the Bay area and Sacramento. He will be key to securing our continued growth while also enhancing client and reporter relationships in these critically important markets.”
“I am absolutely thrilled to be reunited with Ron to head up our Northern California business operations. His outlook on business and relationships along with his business acumen are unsurpassed in our industry. In addition, Ron completely embodies the Aptus spirit and will fit our culture and philosophies perfectly,” says Aptus’ President Derek Berg.
About Aptus Court Reporting:
Aptus Court Reporting is a full service court reporting firm headquartered in San Diego, CA. The company provides decades of combined experience in the court reporting industry and offers videography, transcription, and trial support among its list of services. Its company focus is “connecting testimony and technology” for clients internationally. With over 50 years of
combined experience in the litigation support business, Aptus provides a one-stop solution for deposition and trial needs.
