This module introduces the theory and practice of forensic linguistics. We analyse the forms and functions of language in a wide range of settings throughout the legal process from 999 calls to restorative justice. We analyse the discourse characteristics of talk in and around the law and the nature of various written legal texts. We also evaluate the activities of linguists in language reform and the measures taken when individuals are disadvantaged in their contact with the law. Finally, we assess the role of the linguist in providing linguistic evidence such as identifying authors and speakers.

• Evaluate the discourse practices of legal professionals, in communicating with the public;
• Discuss interactional aspects of common law judicial systems;
• Analyse spoken and written linguistic data in forensic contexts;
• Evaluate academic research in forensic linguistics;
• Judge the role and responsibilities of linguists who interact with legal systems;
• Sustain a critical argument clearly, coherently, accurately and in an appropriate academic style.

The module will be delivered through a mix of large group and small group sessions, including, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings. Full details on the delivery mode of this module will be available on Learning Central at the start of the academic year – and may be, in part, determined by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidance.

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.  It refines those skills by applying them to ‘real world’ legal settings and legal problems.  The general ability developed in this module of applying descriptive, critical and analytical skills and abilities to practical problems is key to many, if not all, workplace settings.

The syllabus covers such topics as:

• Emergency and non-emergency calls to the police
• Investigative interviews with suspects and witnesses
• The examination of witnesses in court
• Communication between judges and juries
• Forensic phonetics
• Forensic authorship analysis 
• Key issues in multilingualism, culture and the law 
• Restorative justice