Forensic Linguistic Advice Investigation and Research
Frequently Asked Questions

Can you tell me who wrote a threatening letter or a suicide note?
If you think you know who wrote the letter, or if you know that it was written by one of a group of people, than we may be able to say how likely it is that a particular person wrote it. Linguistic evidence will never identify a writer with absolute certainty.

Can you tell me whether a person writing a threatening letter is dangerous?
No. It is our view that forensic linguistic evidence should not comment upon a writer's psychological state. We might be able to comment on whether a text could be perceived as threatening, or whether a writer intended a threat to be communicated. If you need a risk assessment carried out we can recommend a suitably qualified forensic psychologist.

Can you tell me whether a text such as a witness statement is truthful?
The detection of truth (or lies) in written text is subject to much research in both forensic linguistics and forensic psychology. Our understanding of this research is that it is unclear whether this can be done reliably. Because of this, we do not feel that it is right to offer expert opinion or evidence as to the truth of a text such as a witness statement.

Can you tell me what sort of person wrote a text?
We can sometimes produce a sociolinguistic profile from a text. This might include a person's educational or cultural background, and even their age or gender but this sort of opinion is always going to be uncertain. Although such an opinion might have investigative value it is very unlikely that it would reach an evidential standard or be acceptable to a court.

Do you do forensic phonetics work? Can you tell me whose voice is on a tape?
This can indeed be done but is not offered by FLAIR. We are happy to recommend a suitably qualified forensic phonetician.

Do you do forensic document analysis?
This is not offered by FLAIR. We are happy to recommend a suitably qualified forensic document analyst.

Do you do forensic handwriting analysis?
This is not offered by FLAIR. We are happy to recommend a suitably qualified forensic handwriting analyst.

How can I become a forensic linguist?
In Britain you will normally need advanced training in linguistics at postgraduate level, though it is probably best to opt for the more focussed courses. At Aston University you can do either an MA in Applied Linguistics with a specialisation in Forensic Linguistics or enrol in an MSc course in Forensic Linguistics, which is offered on a distance-learning basis. You can also follow a residential MA course in Forensic Linguistics at Cardiff University. If you are not sure where to start, it's always a good idea to come to the Summer School.

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