Critical Discourse Analysis of selected Legal Discourse using Dell Hymes’ (1974) SPEAKING Model

The Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) of Legal Discourse requires the specific theoretical framework as it is the specific language which uses the codes and signs along with specific situation or setting. This study aims at analyzing the selected Legal Discourse (Rylands v Fletcher 1868 case). This research investigates how it lies based on the application of Hymes’ SPEAKING model (1974). The current study is limited to the CDA of the selected legal discourse in which the focus is on the analysis of the judgments and final decision of Rylands v Fletcher 1868 case took place. The collected data, under consideration, is composed of the judgments and final decision took place in the House of Lord on July 17th, 1868. Qualitative research methods are employed to gather and analyze data. Based on the Hymes’ (1974) renowned model, the findings of this study reveal how the SPEAKING model helps in analyzing the text. The discussion also explains that different variables play a significant role in maintaining communicative competence during communication. The study concludes with the implications that this research can contribute to conducting further research works on legal discourses and provides guidance regarding application of Hymes’ (1974) in analysis. Thus, in this way, it also has some pedagogical implications.