Plainly speaking

It is high time we address a fundamental barrier to justice in Pakistan: the confusing mix of legal jargon that leaves the ordinary citizens fumbling in the dark. The difficulty of legal language not only distances the common person, but gives an undue advantage to certain lawyers who thrive on exploiting this confusion for their gain. Our legal system should serve as a pillar of fairness and accessibility; nevertheless it often resembles an insurmountable tower of unknowable vocabulary. How can individuals claim their rights or follow the legal proceedings when the language itself becomes a formidable obstacle?

The solution lies in a thorough revamp of our approach to legal language. Laws should be expressed in clear, concise terms that any layperson can understand. After all, the law governs the lives of all citizens, not just privileged elite fluent in legal jargon. With this, we can empower individuals to know their rights and responsibilities to cultivate a more inclusive and participatory legal system. Let us ensure that the language of the law is not a barrier but a bridge to empowerment for every citizen.

Tania Shahjahan

Qambar Shahdadkot