AAERT and STAR Collaborate to Launch CAPTUR for Legal Reporting Professionals

Unifying the Legal Reporting Community: The Birth of CAPTUR

In a groundbreaking development for the legal reporting industry, the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT) and the Society for the Technological Advancement of Reporting (STAR) have announced their decision to merge, resulting in a new organization called CAPTUR: The Council for the Advancement of Professionals, Technology, and Unbiased Reporting. This strategic alliance, which was unanimously approved by the boards of both organizations, aims to create a cohesive body that represents all professionals involved in the legal record spectrum.

The announcement, made on April 6, 2026, marks a significant leap towards collaboration in a field that has experienced considerable fragmentation. By forming CAPTUR, both organizations seek to establish the first comprehensive association that encompasses stenographers, digital court reporters, voice writers, legal transcribers, videographers, proofreaders, and educators, among others. This move not only illustrates the growing recognition of the need for unity but also highlights two years of increasing collaboration between AAERT and STAR, especially evident during the inaugural 2025 Unity Summit, which gathered enthusiasm from various representatives across the reporting landscape.

A Voice for All Professionals

As Andrea Wecker, President of STAR, aptly stated, “The dedicated professionals who capture the legal record deserve an organization that will bring everyone to the table to champion them with the strongest voice possible.” This sentiment reflects the core mission of CAPTUR: to amplify the voices of its members who play crucial roles in maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings.

The newly formed CAPTUR promises to deliver expanded opportunities for professional development and establish a fortified voice in advocacy, aiming to engage with clients, courts, and stakeholders effectively. As Susan LaPooh, President of AAERT, pointed out, the success of the previous Unity Summit showcases the strong demand for an organization focused on human expertise, skills, and technological assistance.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Unity Summit

The forthcoming 2026 Unity Summit, scheduled for May 14-17, 2026, at the Renaissance Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, will serve as the culmination of this merger, representing not just a milestone for AAERT and STAR but potentially a transformative moment for the reporting profession as a whole. This event is anticipated to bring together a plethora of professionals, from experienced veterans to students, creating a rich environment for discourse, learning, and networking.

For those interested in learning more about CAPTUR, additional details can be found on their official website: AAERT's CAPTUR Page. Furthermore, information regarding the 2026 Unity Summit is also available at Unity Summit Conference.

Conclusion: A New Era for Legal Reporting

The formation of CAPTUR marks a critical advancement in advocating for the rights and recognition of professionals involved in capturing legal records. As the landscape of legal reporting continues to evolve, the establishment of a unified organization can only serve to strengthen the community, ensuring that the vital roles played by these professionals are respected and valued. With CAPTUR at the helm, the future looks promising for all involved in the legal reporting ecosystem.