Explain one effect that statutory interpretation by courts can have on legislation. - VCE - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1

One significant effect of statutory interpretation is the narrowing of the meaning of legislation. When courts interpret laws, they can limit how broadly the legislation is applied. This occurs because judges make decisions on the intention of the law based on the wording and context presented in the statute.

For example, in the case of Studded Belt, the court interpreted the provisions related to safety regulations in a way that restricted their application. This understanding demonstrates how a court’s interpretation can affect not only the current case but also how similar statutes are interpreted in the future.

Furthermore, this interpretation creates precedents that lower courts are required to follow, thereby ensuring consistency in the application of the law across differing cases. As a result, courts play a critical role in shaping the practical implications of legislation through their interpretations.