Court Reporter Practice Exam

Who does the court reporter swear in before the witness?

1. The witness

2. The judge

3. The defendant

4. The interpreter

The correct answer is: The witness

The court reporter swears in the witness before they give their testimony in court. This process is a crucial part of establishing the reliability of the testimony that will be recorded. By administering an oath to the witness, the court reporter ensures that the witness understands the importance of providing truthful information. This oath serves as a formal promise, reinforcing the seriousness of the witness’s obligation to tell the truth during their testimony. Other individuals in the courtroom, such as the judge and the interpreter, hold different roles that do not typically involve swearing in witnesses. The judge is responsible for maintaining order and ensuring the legal proceedings follow the rules, while interpreters facilitate communication for those who may not speak the language used in court but do not administer oaths. The defendant also does not play a role in this process as it pertains to confirming the witness's commitment to honesty.