Top judge in L.A. County allows electronic recording in courts, defying state law

In an effort to address the significant impact of a state court reporter shortage on low-income litigants, the top judge in Los Angeles County, Samantha P. Jessner, has made a groundbreaking decision. She has allowed for the use of electronic recording devices in certain family, probate, and civil proceedings where a court reporter is unavailable to transcribe the record.

This decision has sparked controversy with court reporters and their union, as it goes against established state law prohibiting the use of recording devices in such proceedings. Jessner argues that denying litigants access to electronic recording violates their constitutional rights, prompting her to deem the law unconstitutional.

This move comes after years of battling among court officials, lawmakers, and labor leaders over how to address the ongoing shortage of court reporters statewide. Despite efforts to recruit and retain reporters, including offering incentives and training programs, there has been a net loss of court reporters in Los Angeles County.

The shortage has forced courts to prioritize cases, leaving many litigants without a verbatim record of their proceedings. This has raised concerns among legal advocates, who highlight the challenges of appealing decisions without a complete record.

Jessner’s order allows for electronic recording devices in hearings where a verbatim record is deemed necessary and a court reporter is unavailable. This decision aims to ensure access to justice for all litigants, especially those who are disproportionately affected by the shortage of court reporters.

While the use of electronic recording devices is a controversial step, Jessner believes it is necessary to address the pressing issue of court reporter shortages. The decision has been met with both support and criticism, reflecting the complexity of the ongoing debate.

As the judicial system grapples with these challenges, it is clear that innovative solutions are needed to ensure access to justice for all. Whether through legislative changes, technological advancements, or other means, the goal remains the same: to uphold the rights of litigants and provide a fair and impartial legal process.

In conclusion, Jessner’s bold decision to allow for electronic recording devices in certain court proceedings marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over court reporter shortages. While the decision is not without controversy, it reflects a commitment to ensuring access to justice for all litigants, particularly those who are most vulnerable. As the legal community continues to grapple with these challenges, it is imperative that innovative solutions are pursued to address the systemic issues at hand. Only through collaboration, creativity, and a steadfast dedication to justice can we work towards a more equitable and effective legal system for all.

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