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How to Convert an Uncertified Transcript into a Certified, Court-Ready Document in Texas

If you’ve received a transcript from a deposition, hearing, or recorded proceeding that isn’t certified, you may be wondering:

Can I use this in court?

In most cases, the answer is no—at least not without additional steps. In Texas, court transcripts must be certified by a licensed Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) to be admissible in legal proceedings.

This guide walks you through how to convert an uncertified transcript into a legally certified and court-ready document in Texas.

What Is a Certified Transcript?

A certified transcript is a verbatim record of legal proceedings that includes:

• A signed certification page by a Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR)
• The CSR’s full name and five-digit Texas license number
• A statement attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the transcript

In Texas, only licensed CSRs—regulated by the Texas Judicial Branch Certification Commission (JBCC)—can certify a transcript. Without proper certification, the transcript is likely inadmissible and may be rejected by the court.

Step-by-Step: How to Certify an Uncertified Transcript in Texas

Here’s how to legally convert an uncertified transcript into a certified one that meets court standards.

1. Confirm the Source of the Audio or Transcript

Start by identifying the origin of the transcript:

• Was it created from courtroom audio, a video hearing, or a third-party tool such as Otter.ai or Zoom?
• Was a court reporter assigned to the case?

If a court reporter was present, contact them for the official certified version. If no official reporter was assigned, proceed with the next steps.

2. Obtain the Original Audio or Video Recording

To verify or re-transcribe the transcript, a CSR must compare it to the original audio or video.

• Request a certified copy of the court recording from the court clerk.
• Make sure it includes timestamps, speaker identification, and clear audio.

This recording is critical for the CSR to review and certify the content accurately

3. Hire a Texas-Licensed Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR)

Only CSRs licensed by the JBCC in Texas can certify transcripts for use in Texas courts.

Look for a CSR who:

• Is in good standing with the JBCC
• Has experience reviewing or certifying transcripts from third-party sources
• Can verify the accuracy and format according to court rules

If you're unsure where to start, Shauna Beach & Associates can assist with locating and coordinating a certified professional.

4. Review and Format the Transcript

Before certification, your transcript must meet formatting and procedural standards, including:

• Correct line/page formatting
• Accurate speaker identification
• Removal of transcription errors or inconsistencies
• Proper certification language and footer information

The CSR may make minor edits, reformat the transcript, or retype it entirely, depending on its condition.

5. Get the Transcript Certified

Once the transcript is verified, the CSR will issue a certification page including:

• Their full name and license number
• A sworn statement confirming accuracy and completeness
• Their signature and date of certification

The certified transcript can then be submitted to the court or returned to the requesting party.

Risks of Using an Uncertified Transcript

Using an uncertified transcript in court can carry serious consequences, such as:

• A motion to suppress or strike the transcript
• Rejection of the transcript as evidence
• Delays in court proceedings
• Loss of credibility or dismissal of an appeal

Always confirm your transcript meets certification standards before submitting it in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

A transcript is more than just a record of what was said—it is a legal document that can impact the outcome of your case. If it’s not certified, it’s not safe to use in court.

Working with a licensed Certified Shorthand Reporter ensures your documents meet Texas legal standards and can be relied upon during hearings, depositions, and appeals.

Need Help Getting a Transcript Certified in Texas?

Shauna Beach & Associates offers:

• Certified Transcript Services
• Legal Videography
• Remote and In-Person Depositions
• Expert Review and Certification of AI-Generated Transcripts

Contact us today to get your transcript court-ready and compliant with all legal requirements.

Contact Shauna Beach & Associates

Attorneys, clients, and legal professionals often assume that if a transcript exists, it can be used in court. But in Texas, a transcript must be certified by a licensed Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) to be admissible. Using an uncertified transcript can result in a motion to suppress, dismissal of evidence, or even reversal on appeal.

Let’s walk through what makes a transcript “certified,” why uncertified transcripts are risky, and what you can do if you find yourself in possession of one.

What Is a Certified Transcript?

A certified court transcript in Texas includes:

• A verbatim record of the proceedings
• A signed certification page by a CSR licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas
• The CSR’s five-digit license number and registered firm number
• A statement declaring that the transcript is accurate and complete
• Availability of the certifier to testify if needed

Certified transcripts are governed by the Uniform Format Manual for Texas Court Reporters and must follow formatting, content, and ethical guidelines set forth by the Supreme Court of Texas (Misc. Docket 18-9060).

Why Uncertified Transcripts Are Dangerous

Per the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, two rules specifically address the use of transcripts in court:

• Rule 203.5 – Motion to Suppress
  A party can file a motion to suppress all or part of a deposition transcript due to errors or irregularities, including lack of certification.
• Rule 203.6 – Requirement for Certification
  If a deposition is recorded by non-stenographic means (audio/video), the court can require a complete certified transcript by a CSR.

An uncertified transcript—especially one prepared by a transcription service or non-licensed individual—can be suppressed or ruled inadmissible, putting your case and credibility at risk.

Common Scenarios Where Problems Arise

1. Transcript from a Digital Reporter
   These are common in budget-limited jurisdictions or remote proceedings. While the recording may be accurate, digital reporters cannot certify transcripts in Texas.
2. Transcripts Created by National Transcription Services
   Services like Rev, Scribie, or Datalyst often use multiple transcribers, offshore workers, and uncertified staff to prepare transcripts. These transcripts may be “accurate enough,” but they are not admissible in Texas courts unless certified by a Texas CSR.
3. Stipulated Transcripts
   Some attorneys assume both sides can “agree” to use an uncertified transcript. However, judges are not bound by stipulations when they contradict court rules. A judge may reject the transcript despite both parties’ consent.

What to Do If You Have an Uncertified Transcript

If you find yourself with a transcript that isn’t certified, here’s what you should do:

• Step 1: Confirm the Certification
  Look for a signed certification page from a Texas CSR. If it’s not there, it’s not certified.
  
  
• Step 2: Request the Original Audio/Video
  Ask the court or the opposing party for a copy of the official audio recording. In some cases, ShaunaBeach.com can help you submit the proper request.
  
  
• Step 3: Hire a Licensed Texas CSR
  A Certified Shorthand Reporter can review the audio and produce a new, court-admissible transcript. The CSR’s credentials and certification transform the document into a legally recognized record.

Why Use a Texas CSR Instead of a Transcription Company?

• Only CSRs are licensed to certify transcripts in Texas
• They adhere to the Texas Uniform Format Manual
• Their certification carries legal authority and ethical backing
• They can testify to the accuracy of the transcript if needed

Final Thoughts

A transcript is not just a piece of paper—it’s a critical piece of legal evidence. Using an uncertified transcript in court can lead to delays, lost arguments, or worse. Always verify that your transcript is certified by a Texas CSR, especially before trial, motion hearings, or appeals.

Need help fixing an uncertified transcript?

Contact ShaunaBeach.com today—we can transcribe, certify, and ensure your record is legally admissible.

At Shauna Beach Company, we've always believed that precision, professionalism, and innovation should guide everything we do. What started as a boutique court reporting firm founded by veteran stenographer Shauna Beach has now grown into a full-service legal support company serving modern digital law firms across Texas—and beyond.

As we unveil our new website, we’re also proud to unveil a new era for our company.

A Legacy of Accuracy—Now Supercharged by Innovation

Shauna Beach began her career in 1989, armed with a steno machine, a commitment to excellence, and a clear understanding of what legal professionals need most: accuracy, reliability, and timely service. With certifications from Texas to California and the highest credentials available from the National Court Reporters Association, she built a reputation as one of the best in the business.

Now, over 30 years later, that legacy continues—with her family and a full team of legal technology experts by her side.

Today, Shauna Beach Company provides not only Texas-certified stenographers for depositions, but also offers a full suite of services that support attorneys from the first notice of deposition to the final verdict.

What’s New—and Why It Matters

Our redesigned website reflects the scope and sophistication of what Shauna Beach Company offers today. We've expanded from a court reporting firm into a one-stop resource for all your litigation support needs. Our services now include:

• Certified Court Reporting: Gold-standard realtime reporters with 99.9% accuracy—far exceeding AI-generated alternatives.
• Legal Videography: Broadcast-quality video depositions, including Picture-in Picture and Zoom-ready setups.
• Trial Support Consultants: From synchronized video transcripts to hot seat trial techs, we ensure your courtroom presentation is seamless and persuasive.
• Certified Audio Transcription: We transcribe everything from 911 calls to surveillance footage with Certified Shorthand Reporters ensuring admissibility.
• Video Editing & Synchronization: Clip preparation made easy—just provide your page and line numbers, and we’ll deliver courtroom-ready results.
• Hardware & Software Solutions: We help firms choose, install, and operate cutting-edge litigation technology tools like TrialPad, ExhibitView, OnCue, and more.
• FAA-Certified Drone Footage: Aerial visuals for accident reconstructions, property cases, and environmental litigation.
• Zoom Technicians: Ensure every virtual deposition runs smoothly with our live monitored Zoom rooms and technical support.

Built for the New Generation of Digital Law Firms

The legal world is changing rapidly. Virtual depositions, digital exhibits, real-time collaboration, and hybrid courtrooms are now standard. We’re here to meet the demands of this new environment with technology-forward services and personal support that bridges the gap between traditional practice and modern efficiency.

Need a certified transcript from an audio file? Just upload it. Want synchronized video clips for trial? Submit your video online. Looking for trial software recommendations and training? Schedule a consultation. Everything is streamlined, digital, and built for speed— without sacrificing legal compliance or quality.

Still a Family Business—Just Smarter, Faster, and More Connected

While our technology has evolved, our values haven’t changed. We remain a family-run company. Shauna’s son, John Beach, serves as COO and oversees operations and client care with tireless precision. Her daughter, Olivia Beach, leads our production department, ensuring quality and timely transcript delivery. Together, the Beach family and our expert team make sure your case is supported from deposition to verdict.

Let’s Build the Future of Litigation—Together

Our clients are smart, driven, and focused on results—and we know you don’t have time to waste learning new platforms or chasing transcripts. That’s why we built this new website: to give you an intuitive, reliable hub for scheduling services, submitting files, and exploring solutions that make your job easier.

Whether you're an attorney looking for a trusted trial partner, a paralegal needing certified transcripts fast, or a firm ready to upgrade its litigation tech, we’re here to support you.

Welcome to the new era of Shauna Beach Company. Precision meets innovation, all under one roof.

Explore our services. Upload a file. Schedule a consultation.

Let’s win cases—together.

Have you ever logged into a Zoom deposition only to realize that your sound quality isn't quite what you expected? You might think that the microphone on your computer does a good enough job, but let me share a little secret with you—it's not!

Picture this: you're on a critical deposition, your arguments are strong, but your audio quality is shaky. Your point is lost, and so is your credibility. Don't let this happen to you!
At Shauna Beach Company, we understand the importance of clear communication when it comes to litigation. That's why we have audio technicians on staff who have done the research for you! We've evaluated and identified the best microphones that can help you sound authoritative and captivating during your Zoom depositions.

Tip: Invest in a high-quality external microphone. It can make a world of difference in how you're perceived during Zoom depositions! Even a modest investment can elevate your sound quality and reinforce your competence.

Feeling overwhelmed about choosing the right tech? Don’t worry! We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with us today, and let’s discuss the audio solutions that fit your firm’s unique needs. Don't miss out on opportunities due to poor technology choices; let us help you focus on winning cases rather than worrying about sound issues.

If you want to learn more about the right microphone options for your upcoming depositions, set up a consultation today.

At Shauna Beach Company, we understand that while practicing law is your passion and profession, running a successful law firm also means managing costs and resources
wisely. That’s why we help firms reduce the carrying costs of litigation by recommending the right deposition services and technology for each case. From choosing between stenographic only, stenographic and video, or video only depositions to selecting time saving software and trial presentation tools, we align our services with your case needs and budget. In many instances, our clients have saved up to 50% on depositions and trial services simply by tailoring their approach.

While some vendors may offer low-cost deposition services, many of these providers fail to meet legal compliance standards— leaving attorneys with transcripts that can’t be used in court. At Shauna Beach Company, we know the law. We help you cut costs without cutting corners—so you can maximize savings while ensuring every product is admissible, professional, and trial-ready.

In the fast-paced world of litigation, your time should be spent practicing law—not trying to master complicated software or troubleshoot courtroom tech. At Shauna Beach Company, we take the burden off your shoulders by providing the latest litigation software and hardware solutions—along with personalized training and local support tailored to your team. You don’t have to waste hours figuring out which platform to use or how to use it effectively. We’ve done the research, we know what works, and we’ll guide your team every step of the way.

Best of all, we provide both the hardware and software—so your firm doesn’t have to take on the additional overhead costs of purchasing or maintaining them. From trial presentation apps to exhibit management tools, we’ll help you integrate powerful, user friendly technology into your practice without the steep learning curve.
If tackling these technology decisions feels overwhelming, you're not alone—but ignoring them can cost you valuable time, increase stress, and hold your practice back. Alternatively, by taking action to optimize your technology decisions, you can efficiently manage cases, gain confidence in your tech use, and unlock the potential for growth in your practice without making the financial investment.

Are you ready to make technology an ally in your practice rather than an obstacle? Schedule a consultation with Shauna Beach Company today and take the first step to transforming your litigation technology experience into one that enhances your focus on winning cases.