Statutory Interpretation

What this page covers

This unit page brings together material on how judges read the words of an Act of Parliament. You will find the main approaches: the literal rule, the golden rule, the mischief rule and the purposive approach. You will also find the rules of language, such as eiusdem generis, and the aids judges can use, both internal and external.

Where to start

Begin with a broad overview. The mind map called Statutory Interpretation sets out the rules, the aids and the quotation from Lord Reid on the literal rule. The mind map called Block 2 - Unit 5 Statutory Interpretation adds why interpretation is needed at all, from ambiguity and broad words to unforeseen events.

Then move to one rule at a time. There are separate flashcard decks called Literal Rule, The Mischief Rule, Golden Rule and Purposive Approach. The deck called Rules of Language covers eiusdem generis and expressio unius.

Learning the cases

Cases carry a lot of weight in this topic. The deck called Statutory Interpretation Key Cases includes Brock v DPP, Jones v DPP, Adler v George and Re Sigsworth. Another deck covers cases from the Scottish legal system, including Pepper v Hart and Fisher v Bell. Pair each case with the rule it illustrates.

Using quizzes with maps

Read a mind map, then test yourself. The quizzes called The Literal Rule, The Golden Rule, The Mischief Rule and Extrinsic Aids each focus on one idea. Where a quiz catches you out, go back to the matching map. The mind maps on advantages and disadvantages are useful for evaluation points, which A-level Law answers often need.

Where it sits

This unit belongs to the strand Sources of Law and Law-Making, in the subject Law (general and introduction). Work through it alongside your own course notes.

When you are ready, pick one rule, open its quiz and see what you remember.