Court reporters: official reporter pro tempore.
The impact of AB 2664 is significant for the judicial system within California. It streamlines the process of securing court reporting services, which can be critical in maintaining the pace of legal processes. By allowing for prompt appointments of pro tempore reporters, the bill addresses the procedural delays that arise when official reporters are unavailable. Furthermore, the legislation underscores the importance of court reporting in civil litigation, ensuring that accurate records are maintained without adding financial burdens on litigants, as they can still recover costs from the opposing party. This reform has the potential to improve the overall efficiency of the judicial process in civil cases.
Assembly Bill 2664, introduced by Assemblymember Holden, amends Sections 68086 and 70044 of the Government Code, addressing the role and appointment of official court reporters in superior courts. The bill allows for the appointment of a pro tempore official reporter who is present in the courtroom, rather than requiring an established official reporter to be designated beforehand. This change aims to enhance judicial efficiency by permitting uninterrupted court proceedings, ensuring that trials and hearings can continue without undue delays caused by reporter availability issues. The legislation also mandates that costs associated with hiring a certified shorthand reporter be recoverable as taxable costs by the prevailing party in any civil proceedings, which aligns with existing provisions for official court reporters.
Sentiment surrounding AB 2664 appears largely positive among legal professionals who advocate for increased efficiency in the court system. Many attorneys and court administrators have expressed approval for changes that facilitate smoother court operations. However, there may be concerns regarding the quality and consistency of services from pro tempore reporters, as the reliance on certified shorthand reporters could lead to variability in the fidelity of court records. The bill fosters a dialogue about the balance between efficiency and maintaining high standards in judicial reporting.
Despite the positive outlook, there is contention regarding the changes introduced by AB 2664, particularly about the reliability of pro tempore reporters who may not be pre-selected by the court in advance of hearings. Critics argue that while the bill removes roadblocks that lead to delays, it also raises questions about when and how courts will vet the qualifications of these reporters. Additionally, there may be concerns about the implications for workload and compensation for official court reporters, as the billing dynamics could change with increased reliance on temporary appointments. This highlights the need for careful implementation and monitoring of the bill's impact on court reporting standards.