Riverside County Court Reporters Plan Picket as Contract Talks Stall

Court reporters with the Riverside County Superior Court are planning to picket today as union negotiations with the county continue without resolution.

One of three demonstrations scheduled across Riverside County is expected to take place around noon at the Larson Justice Center in Indio. Additional pickets are planned at two other county courthouses.

NBC Palm Springs reporter Tiani Jadulang spoke with Jeanette Jessup, an official court reporter and member of the bargaining team. Jessup said court reporters are only permitted to demonstrate during their lunch break, which is why the picket is scheduled for midday.

According to Jessup, negotiations have been ongoing for several months and cover not only court reporters but also a broader paraprofessional unit that includes facilities staff, research attorneys, and supervisors. She says the group has faced repeated pushback from the county, including being told there is no funding available for wage increases.

Jessup warned that continued lack of progress could worsen staffing shortages, making it harder to recruit and retain qualified court reporters. She also noted that court reporters were recently removed from family law and probate cases, raising concerns about potential job losses and reduced courtroom services.

NBC Palm Springs is working to secure interviews with court reporters participating in today’s demonstrations and will provide additional updates later today.

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