Statutory Clarity and Interpretation

Question 1

Standard for statutory clarity

Answer 1

Statute must adequately notify persons of prohibited conduct
When reading the statute, a person must be able to understand exactly what is illegal and how they can avoiding committing the crime

Question 2

Void for vagueness

Answer 2

When a statute fails to adequately notify persons of prohibited conduct
Violates due process
When a statute is unclear, this allows for arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement by the police

Question 3

Rule of lenity

Answer 3

If a statute is grievously ambiguous or uncertain, it should be interpreted in the light most favorable to the defendant
Applies only if, after seizing everything from which aid can be derived, we can make no more than a guess as to what Congress intended

Question 4

Process for interpreting language in a statute

Answer 4

Dictionary definitions
Case law
Legislative intent