Court cuts creating havoc on scheduling

I was disturbed with the recent announcement that the 6th Judicial District would be short four court reporters as a result of the 10 percent across-the-board cuts ordered by the governor.

My late husband, John W. Schrimper, was a certified shorthand court reporter, serving in various courts throughout his 42-year career. He retired with the respect and esteem of his colleagues, as well as the judges and lawyers he served.

Court reporters also provide the support staff for judges by typing orders and rulings and doing other clerical work.

I was not surprised by the Dec. 29 article stating the court cuts are playing havoc on scheduling. Because a court reporter is not available, some hearings must be rescheduled. Not only judges' time is lost but also the time of the court-appointed attorney.

Judges across this district always have been burdened with a heavy workload. The outcome of the state cuts should have been apparent before they were ordered.

Darlene J. Schrimper

Cedar Rapids