Court Reporter Practice Exam

For how long must the trial court clerk retain the court reporter's notes?

1. 10 years

2. 15 years

3. 20 years

4. 25 years

The correct answer is: 15 years

The court reporter's notes are a crucial part of the official record of court proceedings, serving as a comprehensive account of what transpired during trials or hearings. The specific retention period for these notes is established to ensure that they are available for future reference, particularly in case of appeals or any related legal matters that might arise long after the court proceedings have concluded. The selected answer indicates that the trial court clerk must retain the court reporter's notes for 15 years. This duration strikes a balance, providing sufficient time for individuals to seek recourse through appellate processes while also taking into account the logistical considerations of archiving records. After 15 years, the likelihood for the notes to be required decreases, allowing for efficient space management within court archives. In summary, the retention policy is informed by the need for accessibility to legal documentation while considering the practicality of storage and maintenance of court records.