Statutory interpretation and intrinsic aids

Overview

Recall questions on what statutory interpretation is and on intrinsic aids, including the short and long titles, preambles, headings and marginal notes, interpretation sections, schedules and punctuation.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is statutory interpretation?

   Model answer

   The process by which judges determine the meaning of words and phrases in legislation when their application to a case is unclear.

2. 2

   What are intrinsic aids in the context of statutory interpretation?

   Model answer

   Tools found within the statute itself that help judges interpret its meaning.

3. 3

   Why does the short title of an Act provide limited interpretive assistance?

   Model answer

   Because it merely provides a brief name for the Act rather than indicating its purpose or scope.

4. 4

   What interpretive value do headings and marginal notes have in statutes?

   Model answer

   They can indicate the subject matter of sections, though courts traditionally gave them limited weight.

5. 5

   How does the long title of an Act assist judges in interpretation?

   Model answer

   It states the general purpose of the Act and can guide interpretation of ambiguous provisions.

6. 6

   What function does a preamble serve in statutory interpretation?

   Model answer

   It sets out the reasons for passing the Act and can indicate parliamentary intention.

Other ways to work this

The same content, four other ways.

What is inside Levo

Six ways to work the same material.