Don’t say ‘falling on deaf ears’, junior lawyers told

Trainee lawyers have been told to avoid using the phrase “falling on deaf ears” amid fears it could offend clients who are hard of hearing.

The University of Law has uploaded an online guide which warns students against the use of “non-inclusive language”.

Phrases such as “policeman”, “manpower”, “housewife” and “hysterical” have been deemed inappropriate.

Trainee barristers and solicitors have also been instructed to avoid using pronouns in legal documents, The Sun reported.

The university’s website says that it is the largest provider of legal education in the UK, and its origins can be traced to 1876.

The “Inclusive language guide for law” was posted on the university’s website on Sept 11.

It says: “If you’re hoping to work in the profession you’ll need to ensure the language you use is not only clear and legally solid, but also inclusive.

“We explore the importance of inclusive language, how it can support your work and create a fairer workplace for everyone.”

Students should challenge others

Under the subheading “What is inclusive language in the legal profession?”, it states: “Inclusive language avoids words and expressions which could potentially exclude or marginalise individuals based on several characteristics.

“These characteristics include, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation (LGBTQ+), ethnicity or race, religion or beliefs, wellbeing, caring responsibilities and socioeconomic status. It can also help challenge stereotypes and prejudices.”

It adds that although students will “likely already have a good idea” of words and phrases to avoid, “if it’s going to have a detrimental result, then it’s simply best to avoid it.”

According to the guide, students should also challenge others when they deem their language to be inappropriate, adding: “Don’t be afraid to suggest a change.”

A specific set of non-inclusive phrases are then listed on the site. It states: “You’ll still encounter countless examples of non-inclusive language, some of which we’ve highlighted above. However, you’ll soon learn to recognise those words and phrases – phrases such as ‘manpower’, ‘housewife’, ‘mental’, and ‘falling on deaf ears’ – which may cause offence and substitute them for more appropriate and inclusive alternatives.”

Finally, it adds: “By embracing inclusive language you’ll be better prepared to represent a wide range of clients and build respectful relationships with everyone you encounter.”

The guidance comes after University College London students were told to avoid the term “vulnerable”. UCL suggested avoiding using the term because it could “disempower people”.