Introduction to legal english Before you start

1. What does the term Legal English mean?

• the English language that is allowed to be used, or

• the language used by those whose work is connected with law?

2. What do you know about the history of Great Britain?

• about early tribes?

• about foreign invasions?

• about kings?

3. Do you know (or can you imagine) how the invasions influence the English language and the language of courts and court procedure?

Concept

Legal English is a special style of the English language that is used by law professionals. It appears in writing texts and in speech of those who deal in or/and with law.

Historically, the language was formed during a number of the invasions that took place in England especially Norman invasion and Roman invasion. The Normans brought their tradition and style of judging cases and that is why French became the official court language. The Romans gave many Latin words and phrases into legal terminology.

Beside these factors, the legal language has developed its own standard of usage certain terms and rules of procedure.

Part 1.Terminology basics

So what makes Legal English so special?

Archaic words and forms

First of all, these are archaic words and forms, or words that are not used in everyday language. These words came into use many centuries ago, and since that time have been traditionally applied.

Latin words

These are exclusively Latin terms which are sometimes not followed even by modern law professionals.

Special terms

These are common words that have absolutely different meaning in legal context.

Special grammar

• long sentences with a number of clauses;

• impersonal constructions;

• use of passive forms

Special “genres” in the spoken and written language

• courtroom language;

• language of legislative process;

• language for law enforcement – police and investigators;

• language of documents

• lawyer’s language of communication

It is important to know that law professionals and administration officials in the UK, USA and other English speaking countries are introducing rules to make Legal English easier to use and understand. So called Plain English Movement is the strategy supported by governments.

Fundamentals

I. Origin of some basic words

1. Law and Legal

The basic word LAW means «закон» и «право». But different derivative notions use the root LEG- like in legal

law – legal

The word law has Old English origin it appeared in ancient times when the Saxons invaded Britain.

The word legal appeared in Middle English from Old French, where it came from Latin leglis.

law… – lawful

leg… - legal; legacy; legitimate; legislate; legislation; legislature

2. Jus - Juris

The derivative nouns, verbs and adjectives of these original words don’t have definitions which are provided below.

Match the definitions with the proper words in the boxes.

1. fair and proper administration of law

2. study of general or fundamental elements of a particular legal system

3. legally right; lawful; equitable

4. a professional whose job is to study law and write research works

5. the power, right, or authority to interpret and apply the law.

6. show or prove to be right or reasonable