Court Reporter Practice Exam

What happens if a transcript request is made but the applicant establishes indigency?

1. The fee is waived

2. The transcript is provided immediately

3. The applicant is required to go to court

4. A payment plan is established

The correct answer is: The fee is waived

When an applicant establishes indigency, it means that they have demonstrated a lack of financial resources to afford certain costs associated with court proceedings, such as the fees for a transcript. In this situation, it is typically determined that the individual should not be denied access to legal resources due to financial constraints. Therefore, the court may waive the fee associated with obtaining a transcript, allowing the applicant to receive it without the burden of the cost. This is important in ensuring fair access to the legal system, especially for those who may not have the means to pay for necessary documentation that can impact their case. While other options might suggest alternative actions, such as immediate provision of transcripts or requirement for court appearances, these do not align with the standard practice of waiving fees for indigent applicants to ensure equitable access to legal processes.