A Level Law Practice Exam

Which statement best describes the purposive approach?

1. It relies only on the wording of the statute

2. It also considers external sources for interpretation

3. It limits the influence of judicial discretion

4. It is less favored than the golden rule

The correct answer is: It also considers external sources for interpretation

The purposive approach is a method of statutory interpretation that emphasizes understanding the underlying purpose and intent behind the legislation. This approach recognizes that the literal wording of a statute may not always capture the intention of the lawmakers fully. By considering external sources for interpretation, such as legislative history, preambles, and reports, this approach attempts to give effect to the overall aim and spirit of the legislation rather than solely relying on the exact text. This is particularly useful in cases where the language might be ambiguous or where the impact of the statute is viewed as central to fulfilling its intended purpose. The importance of the external sources lies in their ability to provide context and clarity that enhance the comprehension of legislative intent, which is not achievable through the wording alone. Thus, stating that the purposive approach "also considers external sources for interpretation" captures its essence well.