Statutory Interpretation Chain

validated legal chain v1.0.0 cc-by-sa

Block ID: ac31e1e9-ac53-4852-bce6-90652d7e6052

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Template

Interpret how the statute in {statute_text} applies to the situation in {facts}, moving through the interpretive canons in their conventional order. (1) Start with the text: read the operative language and give words their ordinary meaning unless the statute defines them — a defined term controls over its ordinary sense, so check the definitions section first. (2) Read the provision in context: surrounding sections, the statutory scheme as a whole, and how the term is used elsewhere in the same act, since a word is presumed consistent throughout. (3) Apply the structural canons where relevant and name them: a list's specific items constrain a general catch-all (ejusdem generis), expressing one thing implies excluding others (expressio unius), and provisions should be read to avoid rendering any part surplusage. (4) If the text remains genuinely ambiguous after that, only then consider purpose and legislative history, noting these are weaker and more contestable authorities. (5) Check for controlling judicial interpretations of this statute, which may override a plain-text reading. (6) State the best interpretation, the strongest competing one, and how the facts fall out under each. Note that interpretive weight given to each canon varies by jurisdiction and court, and a licensed attorney should confirm the controlling approach.

Interpret how the statute in {statute_text} applies to the situation in {facts}, moving through the interpretive canons in their conventional order. (1) Start with the text: read the operative language and give words their ordinary meaning unless the statute defines them — a defined term controls over its ordinary sense, so check the definitions section first. (2) Read the provision in context: surrounding sections, the statutory scheme as a whole, and how the term is used elsewhere in the same act, since a word is presumed consistent throughout. (3) Apply the structural canons where relevant and name them: a list's specific items constrain a general catch-all (ejusdem generis), expressing one thing implies excluding others (expressio unius), and provisions should be read to avoid rendering any part surplusage. (4) If the text remains genuinely ambiguous after that, only then consider purpose and legislative history, noting these are weaker and more contestable authorities. (5) Check for controlling judicial interpretations of this statute, which may override a plain-text reading. (6) State the best interpretation, the strongest competing one, and how the facts fall out under each. Note that interpretive weight given to each canon varies by jurisdiction and court, and a licensed attorney should confirm the controlling approach.

Variables

Name	Type	Required	Trust level
statute_text		yes
facts		yes

statutory-interpretationtextualismlegislative-intentchain-of-thought

Ratings

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Efficiency

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Submitted by James P FounderMod via mcp · 2026-07-18