Frequently Asked Questions
Are all proceedings at the 13th Judicial Circuit either digitally recorded or stenographically recorded for circuit and county criminal cases?
Yes. preliminary presentation, misdemeanor, criminal, traffic, juvenile dependency, juvenile delinquency, and domestic violence cases are digitally recorded. Felony court is a hybrid model, which utilizes both digital recording and stenographic recorded proceedings.
For civil, family and civil traffic infraction cases, it is the responsibility of the litigants to hire a court reporter.
Can anyone obtain transcripts of court proceedings?
Yes, According to Florida’s Sunshine Law, Chapter 286.011, Florida Statutes, transcripts of proceedings are considered public record, with the exception of certain matters which are confidential by law.
What laws govern court reporting?
Fla. Statutes: Section 25.383 (Standards for Court Reporters)
Fla. Statutes: Section 27.0061 (Transcripts in Criminal Cases)
Fla. Statutes: Section 90.108(2) (Transcripts as Prima Facie Evidence) Fla. Statutes: Section 839.24 (Penalty for Failure to Perform)
Fla. Statutes: Section 905.26 and 905.27 (Governing Grand Jury Proceedings)
Fla. Rules of Judicial Administration: Rules 2.215 (b) (6) & (g) (Requirements/Directives of the Judge)
Fla. Rule 2.535 (Court Reporting Standards and Requirements) Fla. Rule 2.430 (e) (Retention of Court Records)
Fla. Rules of Appellate Procedure: Rule 9.200 (requirements for the Appellate Record)
Can I order an audio CD or a transcript from a court hearing? And how?
Yes. You may obtain a copy of the audio CD or printed transcript from any digitally recorded proceeding. If the proceeding was stenographically reported only the transcript is available.
To order an audio CD or transcript from a court hearing, you should note whether the division has a digital or stenographic court reporter and contact accordingly. See below for Division information.