Court Reporter
8-Month Fixed Term Contract
Location: Letterkenny, Co. Donegal (with travel throughout Donegal required)
We are delighted to announce that we are seeking applications for a Court Reporter on a 8-month fixed-term contract. This is a unique opportunity for a journalist to gain in-depth experience and develop expertise in court reporting across both digital and print platforms.
About the Role
This role is ideal for journalists eager to expand their editorial careers by acquiring specialised court reporting skills. The successful candidate will be supported by an experienced editorial team and will have the chance to contribute across our digital platforms.
You will play a key role in engaging with local communities, growing our social media audience, and covering court stories that matter most to our readers. While partially based in our Letterkenny newsroom, flexibility is essential, as you’ll attend court sessions throughout Donegal.
Training and mentorship will be provided by senior newsroom staff to help you succeed in this position.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver accurate and comprehensive coverage of local court proceedings
- Maintain a high standard of confidentiality, professionalism, and impartiality in all reporting.
- Accurately review, edit, and store court transcripts and recordings, ensuring proper use of legal terminology, grammar, and punctuation.
- Build a strong understanding of court procedures and etiquette.
- Monitor the legal diary to identify newsworthy cases and report opportunities.
- Write and edit high-quality content that meets legal and editorial standards.
- Collaborate closely with editors to develop content ideas and reporting strategies.
- Expand our audience reach through effective use of digital and social media platforms.
- Develop and nurture strong relationships with key contacts for enhanced news coverage.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- A strong interest or background in journalism and the legal system.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills.
- Capable of working independently and under tight deadlines.
- Flexible, adaptable, and eager to learn.
- Ability to make sound editorial decisions in line with company policies.
- Knowledgeable in social media and digital news publishing.
- Proactive, resourceful, and a self-starter.
- Experience or training in shorthand is an advantage.
- Ability to speak and write in Irish would be an advantage.
Full clean driving licence required; flexibility for occasional Sunday shifts (on a rota basis) is also essential.
To apply, email your CV and a brief cover letter to hr@northwestnewsgroup.com
(Funding secured from Coimisiún na Meán to facilitate this Court Reporter role on a 8-month fixed-term contract)
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