Intepreting Statutes

[jack29091989]

"When they are interpreting the meaning of words in statutes judges have no real rules of statutory interpretation."
Is this satement above true?

[Ethel]

Yes. Here is a good starting point for this fascinating insight into English law:

http://tinyurl.com/yx8hn3

[Grunty]

You will probably get a more helpful answer from somebody if you give an example. In general, the Judge will rely on the usual dictionary definition of the word. Where there is doubt, or if Parliament wanted to be more specific, the definition of the word will be included in the Act. If there is still doubt, the matter can be decided at a trial, and the decision of the court will be binding on all lower courts.
These decisions make up 'Case Law', which is often quoted during trials. Often the case is so well known to the Judge and the lawyers present, that it is only necessary to mention the name of the case, e.g. R v Bloggs (2007).

[Grunty]

Sorry Ethel, I thought that might happen. I did not mean an answer more helpful than yours.

[Ethel]

Hee hee hee grunty!