In the court reporting field anything – anything – can happen. Any seasoned court reporter could regale you with deposition or courtroom stories that would make your head spin. If a court reporter attempted to write a movie script using real-life examples, they’d probably be accused of making them up.

Like their Hollywood counterparts, court reporters believe in the saying “The show must go on,” so they come to depositions prepared to deal with a variety of situations.

Just what do they carry in their bag of tricks? Here’s a list we’ve compiled from our court reporters, which may vary depending on which method they use to capture the record.

• Steno machine and tripod (or stenomask and digital recording equipment)

• Laptop with CAT software

• Realtime delivery equipment (router, cables)

• iPads or other tablets for clients to view realtime

• Microphones

• Web cameras

• Extension cords and power strips

• Chargers and adapters (for phones, laptops, and more)

• USB and HDMI cables

• USB hub

• SD cards and thumb drives

• Exhibit stickers

• Manila folders

• Post-it notes

• Batteries

• Energy bar/Nuts/Chocolate

• Gum/breath mints

• Water

• Hand sanitizer, Clorox wipes

• WiFi hotspot or MiFi card

• Ethernet cable

• Gaffer’s tape (for taping down cords)

• Cell phone (for a calendar or backup recording app)

• Cough drops or Vitamin C drops

• Ibuprofen

• Paper clip, binder clips

• Notepads

• Small stapler, staple remover

• Pens and Sharpies in varying colors

We’ve also heard of reporters who carry a first aid kit with them after a witness got a gushing paper cut during a deposition.  Some of the items might be a little surprising, but they’ve all been necessary at one point or another. Just ask the court reporter at your next deposition!

Schedule your next deposition with Legal Media Experts today, using our easy online form or calling 800-446-1387