Filing extension on appeal to accept freelance assignments
(1987)
Statement of facts
An official reporter who has received an order for a transcript for appeal purposes accepts a freelance assignment calling for expedited delivery. In order to make timely delivery of the freelance transcript, the reporter must request an extension of time for filing his own transcript.
Is the reporter's conduct a violation of the Code of Professional Ethics?
Discussion
The official reporter's responsibility is to the court, counsel and litigants. Any action that violates this responsibility also violates the reporter's oath of office and the trust placed in him. It also reflects unfavorably on the integrity, not only of the reporter, but of the reporting profession.
Conclusion
Based on the stated facts, the Committee's opinion is that the reporter is in violation of Provisions 6 and 9 of the Code of Professional Ethics. These provisions state that the member shall:
No. 6. Refrain, as an official reporter, from freelance reporting activities that interfere with official duties and obligations.
No. 9. Maintain the integrity of the reporting profession.
THIS PUBLIC ADVISORY OPINION REFLECTS THE STATUS OF THE LAW IN MOST JURISDICTIONS. MEMBERS ARE REQUIRED TO CONFORM TO THE ACCEPTED PRACTICES SET FORTH IN THIS PUBLIC ADVISORY OPINION TO THE EXTENT THAT SUCH PRACTICES ARE CONSISTENT WITH THEIR OWN APPLICABLE STATE AND LOCAL LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS.