The rule of pari materia is a principle of legal interpretation that is used to interpret statutes. The rule applies when there are two or more statutes dealing with the same subject matter, and it provides that the statutes should be read together as if they were one comprehensive statute.
The Latin phrase “pari materia” means “on the same subject matter.” The rule of pari materia is based on the principle that statutes dealing with the same subject matter should be read together in order to give effect to the overall legislative intent. This is particularly important when there are inconsistencies or conflicts between the statutes.
Example: If there are two statutes that deal with the regulation of a particular industry, the rule of pari materia would require the court to read the two statutes together in order to determine the overall legislative intent. This would involve considering the language, purpose, and scope of both statutes in order to give effect to the intent of the legislature.
The rule of pari materia is particularly useful when there are gaps or ambiguities in a statute. By reading the statute in light of other statutes dealing with the same subject matter, the court can gain a better understanding of the intent of the legislature and fill in any gaps or ambiguities in the statute.
However, the rule of pari materia is not always conclusive and may be outweighed by other factors, such as the plain meaning of the statute or the legislative history. Ultimately, the court will apply the rule in a way that is consistent with the overall purpose and intent of the statutes.
