September 8, 2025 · Perspective · Career & Longevity
Reposted with permission from the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). Original article by Lynette Mueller, FAPR, RDR, CRR. © NCRA.
Source: Original on TheJCR.com
Should you retire—or re-shape your work? This piece argues that many veteran reporters thrive by working longer but differently: dialing into flexible, remote roles, mentoring, or shifting into scoping/proofing—retaining purpose, income, and community while protecting health and balance.
Key ideas
- Financial breathing room: extra income years delay draws and can smooth the bridge to Medicare/benefits.
- Brain & social health: mentally demanding work and regular interaction help reduce cognitive risks and isolation.
- Purpose doesn’t retire: mentoring, volunteering, or lighter caseloads keep skills and identity alive.
- Redefine the role: remote depos, “of counsel”-style consulting, scoping/proofing, or extra state licensure to widen options.
- Flexibility is the feature: choose energizing assignments; pivot when needed; consult your doctor/financial advisor.
“Retirement no longer has to mean closing the door on your professional identity.”
— From the original article
Practical next steps (for interested readers)
- Explore remote proceedings setup (Zoom, realtime streaming, cloud repositories, VPN).
- Consider mentoring students/new professionals via associations.
- Add a second state license to expand remote coverage opportunities.
Read the full article
For the complete piece and tools to work smarter, not harder, visit The JCR.
Members: Log in to see the full text in the September 2025 JCR online issue.
Credit & permissions
Shared with permission from the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). Original article by Lynette Mueller published September 8, 2025.
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