Accessible by Design: Legal Writing for Financial Services under the EU Accessibility Act
Accessible by Design: Legal Writing for Financial Services under the EU Accessibility Act

Summary/Abstract: The European Union Accessibility Act (EAA) introduces a transformative requirement for financial services providers: all consumer-facing contracts must be drafted in language no more complex than the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This paper examines the legal, linguistic, and practical implications of this mandate, situating it within the broader movement towards plain language and accessibility in legal writing. After outlining the relevant regulatory framework, the paper analyses the B2 CEFR standard and its application to legal texts, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents for financial institutions. Through case studies and best practice examples, the paper demonstrates effective strategies for simplifying legal language without sacrificing legal certainty or consumer protection. The analysis concludes with recommendations for legal drafters, policymakers, and educators to support the transition towards more accessible financial contracts, ultimately promoting greater financial inclusion and compliance with EU accessibility standards.

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