A Level Law Practice Exam

How does the narrow version of the golden rule differ from the wider version?

1. The narrow version avoids literal interpretation

2. The narrow version is applied to ambiguous words

3. The narrow version applies to all statutes equally

4. The narrow version is only applicable in criminal law

The correct answer is: The narrow version is applied to ambiguous words

The narrow version of the golden rule is specifically focused on interpreting statutes where the words are ambiguous or where applying a strict literal interpretation would lead to an absurd result. By utilizing the narrow version, courts can clarify ambiguous terms to ensure that the law is applied in a logical and fair manner, avoiding outcomes that would not make sense in the context of justice or societal norms. In contrast, the wider version of the golden rule allows for a broader interpretation of legislation, permitting a more extensive consideration of the purpose and spirit of the law, not just its textual ambiguity. This means that while the narrow version seeks to resolve ambiguity to avoid absurdity, the wider version takes a more holistic view of the legislation's intent, potentially impacting its application more significantly across a wider range of scenarios. This differentiation is crucial as it dictates how laws are interpreted and applied in various contexts, ensuring that judges can maintain fairness and logic in their rulings while remaining within the bounds of the law's language.