What best describes the role of a CDR in the legal process?

The role of a Certified Deposition Reporter (CDR) is best described as acting as a neutral transcriptionist capturing testimony. This function is crucial in the legal process because it ensures that an accurate and unbiased record of the spoken words during depositions is created. A CDR is responsible for producing an official transcript that lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals can refer to, which upholds the integrity of the legal proceedings.

Being neutral means that the CDR does not take sides or influence the content of the testimony, which is essential in maintaining the fairness and impartiality of the judicial process. This role involves listening attentively and documenting all spoken dialogue verbatim, which contributes significantly to the reliability of the legal record.

Other roles mentioned, such as serving as an attorney's assistant, interpreting legal jargon for the jury, or facilitating witness coaching, go beyond the scope of a CDR’s responsibilities and could compromise the neutrality and objectivity that are fundamental to the position. The emphasis on neutrality and accuracy defines the core responsibility of a CDR in the legal context.