The Los Angeles County Superior Court system is facing a massive shortage of court reporters, and court officials say it will be difficult to fill all those vacancies.According to Superior Court CEO David Slayton, "we have over 100 vacancies that we have developed over time," for various reasons. Associate Superior Court Judge Sergio Tapia blames an aging workforce and a growing freelance workforce for the difficulties filling spots.
"Van Dyke said you'd have to hire a freelance reporter or accept a digital recording if available. According to Van Dyke, a freelancer can make as much as three times the $120,000 a year that a staffer might get.In a statement to FOX 11, the California Court Reporters Association said that "The court is prioritizing expanded installation and use of electronic recording equipment in courtrooms," but say those recordings can come with issues.