In the near future, I plan to introduce a resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on the comparison of the transcripts compiled by court reporters in the court of common pleas to those compiled using AI technology.

Transcripts are necessary tools for anyone in the court system to have a clear record of what was said, exactly as it was said and by whom it was said during a court interaction.

My study would include courtrooms in counties representing Second Class A through Eighth Class to sample a variety of populations and court resources available to adopt AI technology for the purpose of generating transcripts during trials, hearings, petitions, etc.

For people requiring legal representation or taking on a case pro se, the costs associated often limit one’s ability to seek their “day in court.” And as we know, rarely is an issue settled in one day. For example, family court struggles, including custody situations, can often drag on for months or years, with delayed hearings and lengthy appeals, effectively bankrupting individuals.

Many constituents have come to me about the costs of obtaining transcripts, or the lack of availability of transcripts. The Request for Transcript or Copy form states, “If the cost of the transcript presents an economic hardship, there are reduced rates available to those who qualify”, but to qualify, individuals must demonstrate financial hardship by filing a motion with the court along with a detailed financial affidavit or declaration. It’s a cumbersome and confusing process and subjective to each individual court.

With the development of AI technology, this is one area that may greatly benefit by reducing costs of transcript generation, improving accuracy, and making transcripts of all court interactions possible.