Finding deposition work\

By Fannie Smith
Posted 5/29/03

The Pre-trial investigation law. In 1952 for investigation into the evidence of coming trials, such as depositions, I was welcomed by the court reporting profession. I was called by lawyers to take some depositions. When the case was before the trial judge, invariably the official court reporter reminded the lawyers that he and his associates were available for that work. That didn't help me develop deposition work. Of course, I did nothing about it.

However, a few lawyers I worked for, as a stenographer or as a court reporter, said they expected to be appointed as judges in the district. They assured me that I was going to be their court reporter.These lawyers were appointed by the governor and went to the courthouse to get acquainted with their new associates. In a couple weeks, I'd get a call, or a visit, saying, "I have to work with the courthouse people.² ³I'm sorry, but I've got to change my plans."

The official court reporters explained to the new judge, "What will it look like to have a pretty girl in your courtroom? What will your wife say?" and more.

Before 1967, I had three such situations. The excuses made to the newly appointed judge from the officials were their own, but it was enough. None criticized my work. The leaders of the court officials explained to the candidate they had a chosen reporter for him and hoped he would consider their man. So, it was not yet the time for a woman in the court reporting business using the stenotype shorthand machine.

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Some court players were remarkable. The best lawyers in Minneapolis generally had known reputations in the then simple system. This incident occurred when the system began to award damages through insurance for injuries in work places, and from automobile accidents and more, because businesses insured themselves against employee injuries at work or from injuries in automobiles. An attorney, Mr. Deparcq, a paraplegic using crutches, resulting from a bout with polio, and was well known for his work representing the plaintiffs in this new field.

He had his office on the 25th floor of the Rand Tower, At Christmas time each year he shared the income from his work with his total working staff. Knowing and coffee-ing with his secretaries, I was told that they received a larger bonus than their yearly salary. You can believe their jobs lasted for their working lifetime. He had their loyalty. And, no wonder Mr. Deparcq was so successful.

This injured young fellow now, a paraplegic employee, was asking for an unheard-of award of $50,000. A Mr. Anderson represented the defendant and the insurance company had another well-known, successful attorney. After the testimony, Anderson argued first, pointing out to the jury, "Look at Mr. DeParcq; how successful he is as a lawyer and look at all the money he's making, though a paraplegic." There was more from Mr. Anderson.

Now, it was Mr. Deparcq's turn. He told the jury what it was like to be a paraplegic as he stood on his crutches before them. The jury came back with an award of $50,000 as asked for. This was the first time and the biggest amount given by a jury for a long time. Good lawyers can misjudge.