Court Interpretations

Definition

Court interpretations refer to how courts interpret and apply laws during trials. They can shape how laws are understood and enforced.

Analogy

Consider court interpretations as chefs following recipes. The recipe (law) might say "add salt to taste," but each chef (judge) may interpret what "to taste" means differently - some might add more salt while others less.

Related terms

Statutory Interpretation: This is when judges interpret and apply legislation (laws). Like chefs interpreting what 'a pinch' of salt means in different recipes.

Precedent: A rule established in previous legal cases used by judges as basis for their decision in similar cases. Like chefs using tried-and-tested recipes as a guide for creating new dishes.

Judicial Review: The power of courts to declare laws and actions of local, state, or national government unconstitutional. Like a head chef checking the quality of dishes before they are served.