Career in Legal Transcription
Legal Transcription is broadly classified as a field where recorded or soft copies of legal documents are converted into hard documents. The function of a Legal Transcriptionist involves transcribing of the audio files of legal proceedings into written reports. It includes transcribing everything in the civil and criminal court systems into hard copy documentation. If you are not so kicked about the regular career options after pursuing Law, then this might make you smile.
The information to be transcribed is provided to the professionals in either dictated or recorded form in the courtroom, law offices or at deposition hearings with less official setting. The data will be inclusive of testimonies, pleadings, interrogatories (questions and answers), reviews of administrative hearings and the like.
Eligibility Criteria:
For pursuing a career in this field the candidate must have a:
- High school diploma
- Certification from a vocational school.
- Graduation from a 2-year, vocational school or junior college
Skills required for being a legal transcriptionist:
- Good hearing and listening skills are needed for transcribing
- An understanding of legal terminology, excellent spelling and accurate typing skills
Job Opportunities
The job market is quite good as there is lesser competition with plenty of jobs. This seems to be gaining importance with the need for accurate and more advanced legal documentation to help businesses maintain better records and provide client protection. Legal transcriptionists are also hired by outsourcing companies or what we know as LPOs or Legal Process Outsourcing. Since India is a major outsourcing hub, the opportunities are plenty. Experienced legal transcriptionists have the option to pursue their career as a court reporter, medical transcriptionist and or broadcast captioner.
Remuneration:
Candidates can expect to earn anything between Rs.10,000 - 15,000 in the beginning. With experience, the remuneration will increase and the candidate can earn a handsome salary.
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