statutory interpretations

Question 1

define statutory interpretation.

Answer 1

when judges give meaning to the words or phrases in an Act of Parliament so they can solve a case.

Question 2

how do judges interpret statutes?

Answer 2

they look at past court decisions

Question 3

what are reasons for statutory interpretation?

Answer 3

• to resolve problems that occur as a result of the drafting process
• to resolves problems that occur when a court is applying the Act.

Question 4

what are problems that arise as a result of the drafting process?

Answer 4

it can be difficult because the parliamentary counsel must gain information from policy documents and are given vague instructions from members of parliament.
other problems are:
- mistakes in the drafting process
- the intention of the bill might not be clearly expressed.

Question 5

what are problems that can arise as a result of applying the act?

Answer 5

• the act may be out of date and not reflect societal values
• meaning of words can change over time

Question 6

what are the effects of statutory interpretation?

Answer 6

• the decision is binding on the parties and any similar persons in the future
• precedents are set for future cases to follow (binding or persuasive)
• words or phrases contained in the disputed Acts are given meaning