Rhetorical courtroom discourse and courtroom technology : a lawyer's perspective

Abstract

This dissertation will venture into the field of criminology with a legalistic perspective. Hence, the researcher will attempt to analyze segments of the criminal courtroom, mainly the language used and the importance of rhetorical discourse whilst also evaluating the effects of technological advancements in the courtroom. A qualitative approach was used in obtaining all necessary information whilst grounded theory and coding where adopted to analyze data and consequent findings. Accordingly, manipulation, issues of gender, education, power, deceit and control will be critically assessed in the attempt to understand the true mechanism of a courtroom from a lawyer's perspective. Ultimately, questions will be raised on the type of audience that a lawyer is facing, the language used by legal professionals, technology and its manipulation whilst also trying to affirm a common category by which the art of persuasion, or rhetorical courtroom discourse, and manipulation of technology are possible.