For a law student or junior lawyer, Principles of Statutory Interpretation is not a novel to be read cover-to-cover in one sitting. It is a tool.
Step 1 - Identify the Apex Court's approach: If you have a statute, check the index for the specific Section or topic. Step 2 - The Maxims: Look up Ejusdem Generis (general words following specific words get limited to the same class) or Expressio Unius Est Exclusio Alterius (express mention of one thing excludes the other). Step 3 - Check the Presumptions: Does your case involve retrospective effect? Check the chapter on "Retrospective Operation." Step 4 - Constitutional Validity: If challenging a law, read the chapter on "Presumption of Constitutionality." Singh notes that courts presume the legislature acts within its powers. principles of statutory interpretation gp singh
"Wait!" cried the imp. This was The Mischief Rule (Heydon’s Case). "My Lord, open G.P. Singh’s chapter on the Mischief Rule! We must ask: What was the 'mischief' the law intended to cure? Did the legislature in 1920 intend to let trained animals commit crimes without penalty? No! They wanted to stop robbery. The monkey is just a tool, like a crowbar. To interpret this otherwise defeats the very purpose of the Act." For a law student or junior lawyer, Principles
Justice Silas tapped his chin. The imp made sense, but the Literal Rule blocked the path. This nuance is the "Principles of Statutory Interpretation"
Imagine a law that says: "No person shall keep dogs, cats, or other animals in an apartment."
This nuance is the "Principles of Statutory Interpretation" at work.