In a recent lawsuit the ACLU took the position that a transcript should be required as a component of due process in all hearings.

In a recent lawsuit the ACLU took the position that a transcript should be required as a component of due process in all hearings.  The defendants in the case took the position that transcripts can be costly and therefore may be unjustified in certain cases where the resources to make a decision are small.  This debate is in some ways similar to the one surrounding the video taping of confessions and ensuring all police officers and their cars have cameras.  Should a transcript or recording of all hearings be required?  Is it a minimum to ensure fairness under the due process clause?