Dear Members,

The Code of Ethics for TCRA adheres to what was adopted by NCRA, and establishes guidelines all reporters should follow in their daily business affairs.  Of particular importance is Ethics Code #9, which states, “Maintain the integrity of the reporting profession”.  We are tasked with the responsibility of abstaining from improprieties, or the appearance of improprieties.  Consider the effect or possible effect of the decisions you make, the effect upon yourself and others.

The following information is posted under the Ethics heading of NCRA:

Court reporters, clients, and gift giving – information for clients 

The following information can be used to create an information sheet to share with attorneys at depositions, included as an envelope stuffer, etc.

For your information, Counselor:

DID YOU KNOW -- that incentives, gifts, and rebate programs are being offered by court reporting firms to influence the hiring decision?

DID YOU KNOW -- that reporting firms who give valuable gifts are not following the National Court Reporters Code of Professional Ethics, which states any gift, incentive, reward, or anything of value is not to exceed 100 in the aggregate per recipient each year?

DID YOU KNOW -- that the amount of these gifts may be considered by the IRS to be revenue to you and create a taxable event to the recipient, whether it be a lawyer, legal assistant, or any other employee of the law firm?

DID YOU KNOW -- that a reporter or deposition firm who gives gifts to a law firm that exceed $600 would be required to provide an IRS information return to that recipient law firm?

Protect yourself and your client.  Hire a reporter based on skill and experience and one who puts ethics first.

W. Clement Stone, businessman, philanthropist and author, said, "Have the courage to say no.  Have the courage to face the truth.  Do the right thing because it is right.  These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity."

In today's business environment we are faced with tough and sometimes awkward situations that force us to take a stand on one side or the other.  I would encourage each of you to make a commitment today to consider the effects of every decision you make, in either your personal or professional life, and resolve to do what is "right" each and every time.