Do some accents sound "guiltier" than others? Can the way you speak impact your career in law? And why do some lawyers feel their accent holds them back in pupillage applications and beyond?
In this episode of Doesn't Sound Right, Matt and Denise are joined by linguistics experts Professor Natalie Braber (Nottingham Trent University) and Professor Rob Drummond (Manchester Metropolitan University) to explore their latest research on accents, accentism, and the legal profession.
Natalie and Rob explain why our accents change over time, how bias against certain accents persists in the workplace and courts, and why they believe accentism remains "the last socially acceptable form of prejudice."
Essential listening for aspiring lawyers, barristers, solicitors, policymakers, and anyone passionate about social mobility, diversity, and the UK legal system.
🎧 Sponsored by Walker Morris, a leading Leeds-based firm of solicitors.
🎵 Title music: Yours Story by Diamond_Tunes