Application
This unit describes the skills required to produce recordings and monitor information in courts, including more complex, difficult or unusual proceedings. The unit includes preparing for complex hearings, preparing audio/visual recording equipment and recording complex proceedings.
This unit applies to those working within the court system operating under procedures set by the court.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those set by the court.
Those undertaking this unit would generally work independently with occasional supervisory responsibilities. They would perform complex tasks in a range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Prepare for complex hearings | 1.1 Examine court roster and cause list to identify jurisdiction, number of judiciary and status of case. 1.2 Locate and check existing glossaries, running sheet and previous transcripts including information specific to the case or jurisdiction. 1.3 Check resources and allow sufficient time to set up before proceedings begin. 1.4 Ensure special requirements for relief recorders and standby equipment have been implemented. |
2. Prepare for audio and/or visual recording | 2.1 Set up and check microphone and/or recording equipment and cabling. 2.2 Approach counsel at the bar to establish clear identification for audio purposes. 2.3 Obtain case information and scan court file for relevant information. |
3. Undertake audio and/or visual recording of complex proceedings | 3.1 Operate and monitor recording equipment to achieve and maintain high-quality recording. 3.2 Maintain court protocols, particularly while dealing with legal representatives and responding to queries regarding the transcript. 3.3 Clarify proceedings during adjournments. 3.4 Advise supervisor when court is completed or adjourned. 3.5 Process and secure audio materials in readiness for handover. 3.6 Transfer audio materials to court reporters. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
applying legislation, regulations and policies relating to audio recordings of complex court proceedings
producing high-quality audio/visual recording
monitoring proceedings in two or more types of courts
managing a large personal workload
working effectively under pressure using time-management skills
setting up and operating portable audio-recording equipment
producing high-quality transcripts of audio recordings with 99% accuracy at a speed of up to 120 words per minute depending on jurisdiction
dealing effectively with a diverse range of people
obtaining clarification of proceedings if necessary
responding to queries about transcript in court
gathering and analysing information
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
legislation, regulations, policies, procedures and practice relating to audio recordings of complex court proceedings
procedures relating to public sector legislation, including WHS and environment, in the context of audio recording complex court proceedings
roles and functions of courts
courts administration structure
principles of judicial independence
court procedures and protocols
legal terms and abbreviations
general knowledge of places and terms
English language, spelling, punctuation and grammar
Assessment Conditions
Assessment of this unit requires evidence gathered over time in a workplace environment or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the diverse conditions likely to be encountered when audio recording court proceedings.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Competency Field
Courts