A Level Law Practice Exam

What is the primary focus of the mischief rule as established in Heydon's case?

1. To interpret statutes through strict language

2. To ascertain Parliament's intention in enacting legislation

3. To prioritize case law over statutory interpretation

4. To prevent judges from influencing legislative outcomes

The correct answer is: To ascertain Parliament's intention in enacting legislation

The primary focus of the mischief rule, as established in Heydon's case, is to ascertain Parliament's intention in enacting legislation. This rule, which is a principle of statutory interpretation, allows judges to look beyond the literal meaning of the words used in a statute to understand the law's purpose or the 'mischief' it was meant to remedy. By applying the mischief rule, courts aim to ensure that the statute effectively addresses the problem it was intended to solve, which aligns with the legislative intent. This approach is particularly important when the language of the statute is ambiguous or open to multiple interpretations. The mischief rule encourages a practical and purposeful interpretation that brings the law in line with its intended function, enhancing legal certainty and fairness in its application. This function distinguishes the mischief rule from other forms of statutory interpretation that may focus on a more rigid interpretation of language or prioritize historical case law over the legislative intent.