A Level Law Practice Exam

Which of the following is an advantage of the golden rule?

1. Encourages unpredictability in law

2. Prevents the absurdity and injustice of literal interpretations

3. Reduces the need for external aids

4. Ensures strict legislative adherence

The correct answer is: Prevents the absurdity and injustice of literal interpretations

The advantage of the golden rule is that it prevents the absurdity and injustice that can arise from a literal interpretation of statutes. This rule is applied when the literal meaning of legal texts leads to outcomes that are nonsensical, unreasonable, or unjust. By allowing courts to deviate from the literal interpretation when necessary, the golden rule aims to achieve a more logical and fair outcome that reflects the intention of the law. In the context of a legal system, strict adherence to the literal wording can compromise justice. For instance, if a law is interpreted in a way that leads to a result that contravenes common sense or fairness, the golden rule serves as an important corrective mechanism. By using this approach, judges can navigate around potential injustices and make rulings that align more closely with the purpose of the legislation. Other options presented, such as encouraging unpredictability in law, reducing the need for external aids, and ensuring strict legislative adherence, do not accurately represent the principles underpinning the golden rule. The golden rule seeks to maintain a balance between respecting legislative intent and preventing unjust outcomes, making option B the most fitting choice in illustrating the advantage of this interpretative rule.