Case Summary (A.C. No. 6927)
Facts of the Case
On December 23, 2003, Judge Francisco F. Maclang conducted a hearing regarding a request for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) made by the Roman Catholic Church of Butuan City against the complainants. Post-hearing, the complainants sought a certified true copy of the transcript of the stenographic notes (TSN) from Amores. Despite making several follow-ups, Amores indicated that she was busy with other transcriptions and eventually informed the complainants that the TSN required approval and correction from Judge Maclang before release. Frustrated by her continuous delays, the complainants filed a verified complaint against Amores on February 12, 2004, citing gross neglect of duty and violation of Republic Act No. 6713.
Respondent's Justification
In her comment submitted on June 21, 2004, Amores defended her actions, asserting that on the day of the hearing, December 23, 2003, there was no case scheduled due to a Christmas party, and she had volunteered her services as a stenographer. She explained her inability to complete the transcription due to the length of the notes and emphasized that she was not responsible for the hearings on December 28, 2003, or January 5, 2004. Amores characterized the complainants’ follow-ups as harassment and mentioned that Judge Maclang had advised her not to feel pressured, as the issuance of a TRO would not be reconsidered.
Office of the Court Administrator's Findings
The Office of the Court Administrator recommended a disciplinary action, suggesting that Amores be fined for dereliction of duty. According to Administrative Circular No. 24-90, all stenographers are required to transcribe notes and submit them within twenty days after they are taken. The circular establishes a clear deadline for compliance that is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and integrity of court processes.
Court’s Decision
The court found Amores guilty of simple neglect of duty for her failure to adhere to the required transcription timeline. While acknowledging the burden experienced by court stenographers, the court determined th
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Case Overview
- The case involves a complaint against Roslyn P. Amores, a Court Stenographer at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Butuan City.
- Complainants include Pablo Antimaro, Dinda Antimaro, Anita Odlime, Virgencita Desiata, Ester Nadera, Judith German, Lito Antimaro, and Quirilico Antimaro.
- The complaint stems from Amores’ failure to timely transcribe her stenographic notes (TSN) from a hearing on December 23, 2003, in Special Civil Case No. 1190, which involved the Roman Catholic Church of Butuan City and others against Dinda Antimaro and others.
Background of the Case
- The hearing on December 23, 2003, was conducted under urgent circumstances leading to the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) by Judge Francisco F. Maclang.
- After the hearing, the complainants requested a certified true copy of the TSN from Amores, which she failed to provide in a timely manner.
- Complainants made several follow-ups and ultimately filed a verified complaint on February 12, 2004, citing Gross Neglect of Duty, Inefficiency, Incompetence, Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service, and Violation of Republic Act 6713.
Complainants' Allegations
- Complainants assert that Amores refused to provide them with the TSN despite repeated requests, claiming she was busy with other cases.
- They a