In a move to ensure the swift administration of justice, the Supreme Court has affirmed the critical role of court stenographers in transcribing notes promptly. The court penalized a stenographer for failing to transcribe notes within the prescribed period, highlighting the importance of adhering to deadlines in judicial proceedings. This ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to efficiency and accountability, setting a precedent for timely completion of court-related tasks.

Delayed Transcripts, Delayed Justice: Examining Stenographer Accountability

This case arose from a judicial audit conducted in Davao City, which revealed that Civil Case No. 20394, pending before the Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 15, could not be decided due to missing transcripts. Stenographers Olanda Apilado, Sarah Dujali, and Marianita Bandalan were identified as having failed to transcribe their notes, leading the Court to direct them to explain their inaction. The focus of the Court’s scrutiny centered on the administrative circular mandating the timely transcription of stenographic notes.

Sarah Dujali, a stenographer from RTC, Branch 14, offered an explanation, detailing how the case had been transferred between branches due to the presiding judge’s prior affiliation with the defendants’ legal counsel. She claimed that she had no knowledge of the proceedings after the transfer until Judge Quitain directed her to transcribe the notes, which she purportedly complied with. The Supreme Court, however, found her explanation unconvincing. Administrative Circular No. 24-90, which took effect on August 1, 1990, clearly stipulates that all court stenographers must transcribe their notes and attach them to the case record within twenty days from the date the notes were taken.

The Court emphasized that Dujali’s responsibility to transcribe the notes within the mandated period was not absolved by the case’s transfer or any subsequent orders. Her failure to comply with the twenty-day deadline, without any valid justification, constituted a violation of the administrative circular. The Supreme Court has consistently held that court personnel must diligently perform their duties to ensure the efficient and expeditious administration of justice. In this context, the prompt transcription of stenographic notes is not a mere formality but a critical step in facilitating the resolution of cases.

The Supreme Court referenced Administrative Circular No. 24-90, highlighting its significance in the efficient operation of the courts. The circular aims to streamline the transcription process, ensuring that transcripts are readily available for judges to make informed decisions. By setting a strict deadline for transcription, the circular seeks to prevent delays that can hinder the progress of cases and undermine the judicial process.

Administrative Circular No. 24-90 mandates all court stenographers to transcribe all stenographic notes and to attach the transcripts to the record of the case not later than twenty (20) days from the time the notes are taken.

The Court’s decision underscores the importance of individual accountability within the judicial system. Each court employee plays a vital role in the administration of justice, and their actions or inactions can have a direct impact on the timely resolution of cases. In this case, Dujali’s failure to transcribe the notes within the prescribed period contributed to the delay in resolving Civil Case No. 20394. The Court’s imposition of a fine serves as a reminder that neglecting one’s duties can have consequences.

Building on this principle, the Court found Sarah Dujali liable for violating Administrative Circular No. 24-90 and ordered her to pay a fine of One Thousand Pesos (₱1,000.00). The Court also issued a warning that any repetition of the same offense would be dealt with more severely. This ruling sends a clear message to all court personnel that adherence to administrative circulars and directives is not optional but an essential aspect of their duties.

This approach contrasts with a more lenient view, which might have considered the circumstances surrounding the case’s transfer and the subsequent orders from Judge Quitain as mitigating factors. However, the Court’s emphasis on the strict enforcement of the twenty-day deadline underscores its commitment to efficiency and accountability, regardless of external factors.

The practical implications of this decision are significant. It reinforces the importance of timely compliance with administrative directives, particularly those aimed at expediting judicial processes. Court stenographers are now more keenly aware of their responsibility to transcribe notes within the prescribed period, knowing that failure to do so can result in disciplinary action. This heightened sense of accountability is expected to contribute to a more efficient and streamlined judicial system.

The Supreme Court’s ruling in this case serves as a reminder that the administration of justice is a collective endeavor, requiring the cooperation and diligence of all court personnel. By holding individual employees accountable for their actions, the Court seeks to foster a culture of responsibility and efficiency within the judiciary. This, in turn, will contribute to the timely resolution of cases and the delivery of justice to all.

Furthermore, this case highlights the need for clear communication and coordination among different branches of the court. The confusion surrounding the transfer of Civil Case No. 20394 between branches contributed to the delay in transcribing the notes. To prevent similar situations in the future, courts should implement procedures to ensure that all relevant documents and information are promptly transferred along with the case.

FAQs

What was the key issue in this case?	The key issue was whether the court stenographer, Sarah Dujali, violated Administrative Circular No. 24-90 by failing to transcribe stenographic notes within the prescribed 20-day period.
What is Administrative Circular No. 24-90?	Administrative Circular No. 24-90 mandates all court stenographers to transcribe stenographic notes and attach the transcripts to the case record within twenty days from the time the notes are taken.
Why was Sarah Dujali penalized?	Sarah Dujali was penalized because she failed to transcribe the stenographic notes within the 20-day period mandated by Administrative Circular No. 24-90, without providing a valid explanation for the delay.
What was the penalty imposed on Sarah Dujali?	The Supreme Court ordered Sarah Dujali to pay a fine of One Thousand Pesos (₱1,000.00) and warned that a repetition of the same offense would be dealt with more severely.
What was Dujali’s defense?	Dujali argued that the case was transferred to another branch and that she transcribed the notes upon the order of Judge Quitain, but the Court found this unpersuasive.
What is the significance of this ruling?	The ruling emphasizes the importance of timely compliance with administrative directives and the accountability of court personnel in ensuring the efficient administration of justice.
How does this case impact court stenographers?	This case serves as a reminder to court stenographers of their duty to transcribe notes promptly and the potential consequences of failing to do so.
What is the Court’s stance on delays in judicial proceedings?	The Court views delays in judicial proceedings as detrimental to the administration of justice and seeks to address them through strict enforcement of administrative rules and regulations.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s decision in this case underscores the critical role of court personnel in ensuring the timely administration of justice. By holding individual employees accountable for their actions, the Court seeks to foster a culture of responsibility and efficiency within the judiciary. This, in turn, will contribute to the resolution of cases and the delivery of justice to all.

For inquiries regarding the application of this ruling to specific circumstances, please contact ASG Law through contact or via email at frontdesk@asglawpartners.com.

Disclaimer: This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified attorney.
Source: REPORT ON THE JUDICIAL AUDIT, A.M. No. 99-8-286-RTC, March 17, 2000