After defining Forensic Linguistics, this chapter discusses the various areas that forensic linguistics is applied in the pursuit of justice. Citing several examples, the chapter shows how language can be used as a powerful tool, especially in multilingual contexts, where it can often be abused to the detriment of the nonnative speaker of English. Therefore, it is recommended that forensic linguistics be part of every curriculum for the purpose of raising students’ consciousness of how the legal system is reflected and embedded in the English language. The chapter concludes with teaching applications and offers a sample lesson of how to teach our multilingual students to avoid being trapped by the law or even being caught in legally unpleasant or threatening situations. In general, the knowledge of forensic linguistics is highly recommended in order for us all to combat injustice in society.

Roger W. Shuy

Papers

Help for Innocent Ears