Internal aids to interpretation are tools or materials that can be found within the text of a legal document, such as a statute, regulation, or contract, that can be used to help interpret its meaning.
Courts use internal aids to interpretation in conjunction with other principles of statutory interpretation, such as the plain meaning rule, the golden rule, the rule of ejusdem generis, and the rule of noscitur a sociis, to determine the meaning of a statute. The weight given to each internal aid may vary depending on the context and purpose of the statute, and the court’s interpretation may ultimately depend on a careful consideration of all relevant internal and external aids to interpretation.
Common Examples of Internal Aids to Interpretation
- Preamble or title: The preamble or title of a statute or regulation may provide useful context or background information that can be used to interpret the text.
- Definitions: Many legal documents contain definitions of key terms used within the text. These definitions can be used to clarify the meaning of ambiguous or unclear language.
- Cross-references: Legal documents may contain cross-references to other sections, statutes, or regulations. These cross-references can help to provide context and clarify the intended meaning of the text.
- Marginal notes or headings: Marginal notes or headings within a legal document can provide guidance as to the intended meaning of the text, although they are not always authoritative.
- Context: The context in which a legal document was enacted, such as the legislative history or policy objectives, can be used to interpret the text.
- Grammar and punctuation: The grammar and punctuation of a legal document can also provide clues as to the intended meaning of the text.
