Statutory Interpretation

• What does statutory interpretation mean?


  statutory interpretation refers to the way in which judges interpret the language used in Acts of Parliament
• What does narrow use mean?


  If a word is ambiguous, the judge may choose between two possible accepted meanings to avoid an absurd outcome.
• What does Wider use mean?


  This is where there is only one meaning, but this would lead to a repugnant situation the courts may modify the words of the Act.
• Why do judges use the golden rule?


  Only if the literal rule would produce an absurd or unjust result.
• What is the Mischief Rule?


  Words are interpreted in a way which helps to eliminate a problem that occurred under the old law - Heydon's Case (1584).
• What are the 4 questions?

  What was the old law?

  What was the problem/ mischief with that law?

  What remedy did Parliament include in the new law?

  How can the new law be interpreted "to suppress the mischief and advance the remedy"?