This module will introduce the theory and practice of forensic linguistics. First, we consider the forms and functions of legal language in a wide range of settings throughout the legal process from 999 calls to prison.  This aspect of the module, will examine the discourse characteristics of talk in and around the law and the nature of various written legal texts.  This leads to our second focus: consideration of the activities of linguists in language reform and the measures taken when individuals are disadvantaged in their contact with the law.  Finally, we will examine the role of the linguist in providing linguistic evidence such as identifying authors and speakers and investigating language crimes.

Demonstrate knowledge:

• of the discourse practices of legal professionals, particularly the police and courtroom personnel, in communicating with the public;
• of interactional aspects of ‘western’ judicial systems;
• of key legal cases and appeals which have involved a linguistic dimension;
• of some of the texts and linguistic practices involved in legal processes.

Demonstrate understanding:

• of the nature and scope of forensic linguistics as a sub-discipline of applied linguistics;
• and awareness of and sensitivity to types of data and analysis within forensic linguistics;
• and appreciation of the role and responsibilities of the forensic linguistic and phonetician and other linguists who interact with legal systems.

Timetabled sessions include 2 lectures and 1 seminar per week. During seminars, you may be required to make presentations and lead discussion. Lectures are usually supplemented with PowerPoint slides and handouts summarising content at a reasonable level of detail. These are usually made available on Learning Central during or immediately after the session. Audio and video are used in this module. Transcripts are provided where the audio or visual texts are analysed in detail or are a core element of the lecture or seminar.

Critical and other forms of reading and writing; analysis of written and spoken language data; presentation; discussion; listening.  This module develops a range of descriptive, analytic and critical skills and abilities which students will have first begun to build in years 1 and 2 of their degree.  This module refines those skills and refines a reflexive understanding of those skills by considering their application in ‘real world’, legal settings and to ‘real world’ legal problems.  The general ability developed, therefore, of considering problems by the application of descriptive, critical and analytic skills and abilities is key to many, if not all, workplace settings.

The module is assessed by coursework (50%) and exam (50%). 

The coursework provides an opportunity to explore topics in more depth. Coursework titles are provided in a purpose-built document by week 2 of the module. Coursework should demonstrate a good critical understanding of key issues, theories and concepts covered in weeks 1-5 of the module and should develop a clear and convincing argument presented according to the academic conventions outlined in the English Language Undergraduate Student Handbook.

The exam invites argumentative essays on topics covered in the second half of the module (weeks 7-11). You will need to read widely in advance of the examination and produce answers which evidence this reading.  It is however essential that you also reflect on what you have read and use it to construct your own answer to the questions set.  This answer should show an ability to reflect on the topic required by the questions and to address pertinent issues critically and carefully.

The module is assessed according to the Assessment Criteria set out in the English Language Undergraduate Student Handbook. Otherwise, there are no academic or competence standards which limit the availability of adjustments or alternative assessments for students with disabilities.

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:

In accordance with University regulations, students are allowed two attempts at retrieval of any failed essay, for a maximum module mark of 40%.  Resit assessments are held over the summer.

Theme 1 – Language and the police

999/911 Calls 
Investigative Interviews: Suspects and PACE                                                                 
Investigative Interviews: Witnesses                                                                                                 Investigative Interviews: A closer look
Arrest and Detention: Writing     
Arrest and Detention: Speech      

Theme 2 – Language and the courtroom
Key Issues in language and Court
Judges and Juries in Court                       

Theme 3 – Linguistic experts in the legal system
Key Issues around Expert Witnesses
Forensic expertise and levels of language
Forensic Phonetics
Forensic Authorship Analysis       

Theme 4 – Special situations in police and court settings
Key issues in multilingualism, culture and law
Case study: The Australian legal system                                                                                          

Theme 5 – After conviction
Restorative Justice

The set text for this module is:

Coulthard, M. and Johnson, A. (2007) An Introduction to Forensic Linguistics: Language in Evidence. London: Routledge.

This will be supplemented by an electronic course pack which will be introduced during the first week of the module.

Other books which give an indication of the depth and breadth of this module are:
Eades, D.  (2010)  Sociolinguistics and the legal process  Bristol: Multilingual Matters.
Mooney, A.  (2014)  Language and law  Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
Solan, L. and Tiersma, P.   (2005)  Speaking of crime: The language of criminal justice   Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Tiersma, P. and Solan, L.  (eds.)  (2012) The Oxford handbook of language and law  Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Full guidance on recommended readings and on accessing the electronic course pack will be distributed and discussed in detail in week 1. Students will be encouraged to consult recommended books, journal articles and websites as well as identifying, investigating and critically reviewing literature, in this broad sense, independently.