ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the legal side of transcription. Transcriptionists are often required to sign confidentiality forms and, depending on the sensitivity of the materials, adhere to strict guidelines about transmission of files, password protection on computers and not discussing the material with anybody outside the project team. This chapter helps transcriptionists and project managers identify libelous statements. It touches on regulations affecting oral history and other types of qualitative research, including GDPR legislation and Institutional Review Boards. The proliferation of online access to transcripts and audio raises further legal and confidentiality issues. This chapter further discusses the practice of restricting access to interviews.
