Description
Book SynopsisThe first study to provide an analysis of multimodal communication in courts of law. It will interest language and law scholars, and researchers in the fields of gesture studies and social interaction in institutional contexts. It will also appeal to those interested in the adjudication of sexual assault.
Trade Review'… this book compellingly re-examines what we mean when we talk about 'language and law' and effectively debunks the myth that law is only about words. It provides a fascinating steppingstone for future work in courtroom discourse.' Ana-Maria Jerca, The LINGUIST
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; List of transcription conventions; Introduction; 1. Multimodal conduct: what is it?; 2. Co-constructing expert identity; 3. The transformation of evidence into precedent; 4. Negotiating intertextuality; 5. Motives and accusations; 6. Nailing down an answer; 7. Exhibits, tapes, and inconsistency; 8. Material mediated gestures; 9. Rhythmic gestures and semanticity; 10. Conclusion; References; Index.
