Now in its third edition, this practical introduction to forensic linguistics is required reading for students of language and the law. It includes:
new chapters on identifying forensic texts and important interactional aspects of the language used in legal contexts
an additional chapter on forensic phonetics by Harry Hollien, a world renowned forensic phonetician
an appendix of forensic texts for student study, and even more exercises and suggestions for further reading
a companion website with a repository of statements, notes and examples referred to throughout the text.
This book is vital reading for students and researchers of forensic linguistics and will undoubtedly help to cement interest in the field. It is stunningly comprehensive, addressing a generous range of forensic-related themes and issues: from cyber-terrorism to suicide notes. It takes in spoken, written and computer-mediated communication, examines, in detail, key studies and cases, and is written in a limpid and engaging style. The book also usefully includes a number of practical exercises and insightful commentaries which will prove invaluable to readers wishing to sharpen their forensic analytical sensibilities. This new edition of Forensic Linguistics is a joy to read, and I will be recommending it to all of my students interested in the interface between language and society.
