Minor names on transcripts in NYC

[Deanna Jackson]

Hi, everybody.  Quick question:  My dep is taken of 11yr old boy, who I always refer to in transcript as his first and last name initials, BUT, if he refers to his siblings who are also minors, do I put their names in initial cap only (first name), and how; for example Apple, would it be A period, or just A?  

PLEASE ADVISE.  

[Kelli Combs (admin)]

Boy, I've been reporting for 30 years and I've never come across this issue.  Did the attorney tell you you cannot use the kid's real name?   Sounds like you got some guidance about not using the kid's name in the transcript I assume.

[Deanna Jackson]

Hi, Kelly.  Sorry for late response.  Putting the minor's initials only was requested by attorney.  I asked the same question to the agency I was working for at the time, and they instructed to put initials only for minor siblings.  Thanks for your response.  Really appreciated.  

[Judy Henderson]

Agree with Kelli, in trial when a minor is referred to by initials only of course that's what I use, but if the minor is called by a first and/or last name, that's what I put, unless there's an instruction by the judge on the record not to do so, which honestly I've never had happen.  In depositions of minors I've always used their names and the names of any persons whether minor or adult that they named.  I've never had anyone ask me not to and I would not decide on my own to change what was said, if the witness said Mike, I wouldn't put M without instructions on the record.  

[Deanna Jackson]

Hi, Judy.  Sorry for late response.  Putting the minor's initials only was requested by attorney.  I asked the same question to the agency I was working for at the time, and they instructed to put initials only for minor siblings.  Thanks for your response.  Really appreciated.  

[Sonia Boughton Rogers]

Hi Deanna -

The agency is not correct.  We, as reporters, cannot decide to change the record.  We, of course, are the ones who are licensed; and if anything ever were to be not okay, it would be on us.

Only if both counsel agree (and get 'em to state it on the record - a la cover your butt) can you alter the record.  Only in Court are minor victims' (and sexual assault victims') last names not used.  We've got to be careful, because attorney can, at times, ask us to do things that are not proper.

You may want to look at the Code and consult your licensing Board in your area.

Best!

[Valerie Shand]

Hi, Deanna,

I apologize for the ridiculously late response, but i refer you the New York Courts redaction rules, a link to which is below. 

So if I were a minor, my name would be redacted as V------ S----.  I hope this helps in future transcripts.

 https://www.nycourts.gov/CourtHelp/GoingToCourt/redaction.shtml