statutory interpretation

Statutory interpretation is the process by which courts determine the meaning and application of laws passed by legislatures. When a law is unclear or ambiguous, judges must interpret its intent to apply it to specific cases. This involves examining the text of the statute itself, considering its historical context, and understanding the legislature's goals.12

Courts may use various tools, such as grammatical rules and established canons of construction, to decipher legislative intent. Sometimes, judges may even depart from a literal reading of a statute to avoid absurd or unjust outcomes, a practice sometimes referred to as judicial legislation. The judiciary's role in interpreting statutes is crucial for ensuring laws are applied fairly and consistently.132