An Investigation of Syntactic Structures in Nigerian Legal Texts: A Comparative Study of Court Transcripts
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Background of the Study
Legal texts, particularly court transcripts, are central to the administration of justice and the interpretation of law. In Nigeria, these texts are characterized by formal language and complex syntactic structures designed to convey precision and authority. However, variations in syntactic patterns across different courts and regions may reflect differences in legal traditions, linguistic backgrounds, and institutional practices (Uche, 2023). This study investigates the syntactic structures present in Nigerian legal texts through a comparative analysis of court transcripts. By examining sentence complexity, clause embedding, and specialized legal terminology, the research aims to uncover how syntactic features contribute to the clarity and efficacy of legal discourse. Additionally, the study considers the challenges faced by non-experts in understanding legal language, which may have implications for access to justice and legal literacy (Ifeanyi, 2024). Utilizing a combination of quantitative syntactic analysis and qualitative content evaluation, the study seeks to establish a framework for assessing and potentially simplifying legal language while preserving its formal integrity (Babatunde, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role of syntactic structures in legal texts, there is limited research on how these structures vary across Nigerian court transcripts and affect comprehension. The inherent complexity of legal language may hinder access to justice for laypersons (Uche, 2023). Existing studies often focus on individual cases rather than providing a comprehensive comparative analysis of syntactic features across different judicial contexts. This gap in the literature restricts our understanding of how legal language can be both precise and accessible. Furthermore, the lack of standardized syntactic norms in legal discourse may lead to inconsistencies in interpretation and application of the law (Ifeanyi, 2024). This study aims to address these issues by systematically analyzing syntactic variations and proposing recommendations for clearer legal communication (Babatunde, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
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To analyze the syntactic structures in Nigerian court transcripts.
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To compare syntactic patterns across different judicial contexts.
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To propose strategies for simplifying legal language without compromising precision.
Research Questions:
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What are the predominant syntactic features in Nigerian court transcripts?
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How do syntactic variations affect the comprehensibility of legal texts?
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What measures can improve the accessibility of legal language?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the critical balance between legal precision and accessibility by examining syntactic structures in Nigerian court transcripts. The findings will contribute to legal linguistics and inform policy recommendations aimed at simplifying legal language for the public. Enhanced clarity in legal texts can improve public understanding of judicial processes and support fairer legal outcomes. The research thus benefits legal practitioners, policymakers, and citizens by promoting transparent and effective legal communication (Babatunde, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to the analysis of syntactic structures in Nigerian legal texts as evidenced in selected court transcripts. It does not extend to other legal documents or jurisdictions.
Definitions of Terms:
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Syntactic Structures: The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences.
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Court Transcripts: Written records of proceedings in a court of law.
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Legal Texts: Formal documents that record legal proceedings, decisions, and statutes.
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