Taking evidence from Aboriginal witnesses speaking English: Some sociolinguistic considerations

Abstract

This article takes a sociolinguistic approach to taking evidence from Aboriginal people who speak varieties of English as their first or main language. Before turning to some of the issues about language and culture that can impact upon communication with and assessment of witnesses, it is important to acknowledge the diversity of Aboriginal cultures, experiences and ways of communicating. Despite this diversity, there is also much that is widely shared between Aboriginal groups around the country. Thus, it is possible to provide brief generalisations about some of the factors involved in intercultural communication with Aboriginal witnesses and clients. But it is important to remember that no one is a robot. And many people also belong to more than one cultural group, and there are differences between Aboriginal groups.