Reviewed by Ioana-Rucsandra Dascalu, University of Craiova, Romania

Forensic linguistics is situated somewhere between law and linguistics. Specialists understand just how important the study of speech and discourse evidence is to establishing legal truth and justice. Roger W. Shuy’s Linguistics in the courtroom: A practical guide is the perfect tool for those who want to work in the legal system as consulting staff. S details how to treat attorneys, how to write reports and affidavits, and how to participate in depositions.

S’s method applies the linguistic domains of morphology, syntax, and pragmatics to the analysis of dialect variations and intention. Understanding speech acts is important for accounts of offering, denying, accepting, and apologizing, whereas discourse analysis and lexicography are essential for confirming dictionary definitions used at trials. Although most civil and criminal cases end before going to trial because of negotiated plea agreements, dismissal of charges, or agreements by both parties, many cases require the evaluation of audio or video tape recordings, government-made transcripts, indictments, written reports of witnesses, and even police interviews (51). Linguists are often hired in the United States and in the United Kingdom to analyze these documents.

In universities, forensic linguistics is commonly associated with programs in criminology, business, psychology, sociology, and law: fields that prepare experts in the areas of linguistics and law.

Overall, this volume is an excellent work that will be useful for experts involved in legal activities.