The Impact of Plain Language on Legal English in the United Kingdom

This book explores the influence of plain language on the language of law in the United Kingdom, critically reflecting on its historical development and future directions. It highlights areas where plain language has made significant impact, such as legislative drafting, and explores where it has made fewer inroads, such as court judgments and online terms and conditions. The book looks ahead to unpack topical areas within the plain language debate, including design and visualisation and the ramifications of digitalisation, contributing to ongoing conversations on the importance of plain language in the UK and beyond.

Format: Hardback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the profound impact of plain language on the language of law in the United Kingdom, offering a critical reflection on its historical development and future prospects. The book begins with an insightful overview of the theoretical frameworks that underpin plain language, providing a solid foundation for exploring the ongoing debates surrounding its implementation in the legal domain. It then proceeds to delve into various areas where plain language has made significant strides, notably in legislative drafting, highlighting its role in enhancing accessibility and comprehension for the general public. However, the volume also acknowledges the challenges that remain in adopting plain language in other areas of legal discourse, such as court judgments and online terms and conditions.

Looking ahead, the book explores emerging topics within the plain language debate, including the role of design and visualisation in communicating legal information and the implications of digitalisation on the legal landscape. These discussions contribute to the ongoing conversations on the importance of plain language in both the UK and internationally, emphasizing its potential to improve legal communication, promote legal literacy, and enhance the justice system's accessibility.

With its multidisciplinary approach, this book appeals to students and scholars interested in the intersection of language and the law, as well as related fields such as applied linguistics and English for Specific Purposes. It provides valuable insights into the ways in which plain language can shape legal discourse, promote legal equality, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the legal system. By examining the historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of plain language, this book offers a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand and advance the use of plain language in the legal profession.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367457297