What is the main purpose of the golden rule of statutory interpretation?
Correct answer: D. To avoid an absurd or unreasonable result from literal wording
- A. To ensure that courts never depart from dictionary meanings
- B. To give every statute a strictly religious meaning
- C. To treat legislative history as conclusive evidence
- D. To avoid an absurd or unreasonable result from literal wording
Explanation
The golden rule begins with the ordinary meaning of statutory language but permits a limited departure where that meaning creates absurdity or serious inconsistency. It is narrower than a general power to rewrite legislation.
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Jurisprudence examines the nature, purpose and sources of law through the ideas of justice, rights, duties, sovereignty, liability and legal personality. It compares natural law, analytical positivism, historical, sociological and realist approaches, and considers how courts interpret legal rules, distinguish law from morality and resolve conflicts between competing principles.
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