Can I still appeal a Judge’s decision if there was no court reporter during the hearing?

Yes, but it is more difficult. Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.200 allows you to file an appeal even without a transcript. However, without a record of what happened, it is very hard to prove error.

Options include:

• Agreed Statement of Facts: Both parties agree on what occurred (Rule 9.200(b)(4)).
• Narrative Statement: You prepare a summary of the proceedings, though the other party may object (Rule 9.200(b)(3)).
• Proceeding on the Record: Appeal is based only on documents and orders.

Key considerations:

• The appellate court presumes the trial court acted correctly.
• Without a transcript, the burden of proof is much higher.
• Many appeals fail because errors cannot be shown without a proper record.