A Level Law Practice Exam

Which of the following is an advantage of the mischief rule?

1. It strictly follows the exact wording of statutes

2. It allows for a broader interpretation of legislative intent

3. It limits judicial interpretations to the text

4. It restricts the powers of judges in legal matters

The correct answer is: It allows for a broader interpretation of legislative intent

The mischief rule is a principle of statutory interpretation that seeks to determine the law's purpose and the mischief it was intended to address. This approach allows judges to look beyond the literal wording of a statute to understand the broader legislative intent behind it. By focusing on the problem the legislation aims to solve, the mischief rule allows for a more flexible interpretation that can adapt to changing circumstances and fulfill the original objectives of the law. This interpretive approach is beneficial because it promotes justice and fairness, reducing the rigidity that can sometimes accompany a strict literal interpretation of statutes. It enables courts to address gaps or ambiguities in the law, ensuring that the spirit of the law is upheld as society evolves. The other options reflect characteristics that do not align with the essence of the mischief rule. For instance, the strict adherence to the exact wording of statutes, limiting interpretations to the text, and restricting judges' powers do not capture the purpose of the mischief rule, which seeks to promote a deeper understanding of legislative intent rather than rigidly confining the meaning of words.