What is 'statutory interpretation'?

Statutory interpretation refers to the process that courts use to understand and apply laws written in legislation. When a law is enacted, its wording can sometimes be ambiguous or unclear, leading to different potential interpretations. Judges and courts must interpret the legislation to determine its meaning and how it should be applied in specific cases. This process ensures that laws are enforced fairly and consistently and can involve examining the context of the law, the intent of the lawmakers, and the practical implications of various interpretations.

The other options relate to different aspects of the legal system but do not accurately capture the essence of statutory interpretation. Creating new laws pertains to legislative processes rather than interpretation, while reviewing past legal decisions refers to case law and precedent. Enforcement of existing laws is the application of laws once they are understood but does not include the interpretative aspect which is essential to statutory interpretation.