Abstract

This article analyzes the mutual implications of the language of law ("langue du droit") and language by law ("la langue de droit"). In the first part, this article will discuss Derrida's interpretation of the Edict of Villers-Cotterêts (1539), which established a "unified French language" and consolidated the unity of the monarchic state by replacing Latin with French as the official language. In the second part, it will reflect on Lyotard's distinction between "differend" and "litigation." Finally, the article turns to the Dominici murder case, showing that a trial can be no more than a "trial of words," without any material evidence one way or another (Jean Giono).