Language and Vulnerable Witnesses in Sex Crime Cases

Bringing together interdisciplinary perspectives on the intersection of language, law, digital communication and gender-based violence (GBV), this volume proposes new approaches and methodologies in relation to sex crimes, vulnerable witnesses and emojis. It combines theoretical insight and practical relevance, with contributions from both legal practitioners and scholars, to expand the conversation beyond the often-Eurocentric lens of legal linguistics. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, it advances the important role of language in enhancing access to justice for victims of crimes, specifically sex crimes. It also highlights the role forensic and legal linguists have to play in ensuring legal systems and processes are improved and made more accessible. With diverse chapters focusing on workplace policies, legal proceedings, sexual harassment, and online abuse, it provides important contributions to ongoing discussions about linguistic injustice, institutional silencing, and access to justice, particularly for women and vulnerable groups.With case studies from Canada, South Africa, Spain, UK, and the USA, this book sheds light on contemporary global issues such as the language prejudices faced by vulnerable witnesses in courtroom discourse, online stalkers and groomers, and the use of emojis and non-verbal communication in sexual harassment. The forensic and legal linguistic approach is essential to understanding how power, prejudice, and justice are enacted through language in courtrooms, policies, and digital communication.