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Simple English definitions for legal terms

doctrine of the last antecedent

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A quick definition of doctrine of the last antecedent:

The doctrine of the last antecedent is a rule that helps courts interpret sentences. It means that words or phrases that describe something only apply to the thing that comes right before them, unless the context or the whole sentence says otherwise. For example, if we say "Texas courts, New Mexico courts, and New York courts in the federal system," the words "in the federal system" only apply to New York courts and not to Texas or New Mexico courts.

A more thorough explanation:

The doctrine of the last antecedent is an interpretative principle used by courts to determine which words or phrases in a sentence are being modified by qualifying words or phrases. This principle states that qualifying words or phrases modify the words or phrases immediately preceding them and not words or phrases more remote, unless the extension is necessary from the context or the spirit of the entire writing.

For example, if a sentence reads "Texas courts, New Mexico courts, and New York courts in the federal system," the words "in the federal system" might be held to modify only "New York courts" and not "Texas courts" or "New Mexico courts." This is because "New York courts" is the last antecedent before the qualifying phrase "in the federal system."

This principle is important in legal interpretation because it helps to clarify the meaning of a sentence and avoid ambiguity. By following the doctrine of the last antecedent, courts can ensure that the intended meaning of a sentence is clear and unambiguous.

doctrine of the conclusiveness of the judgment | doctrine of the last preceding antecedent

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Dkk
18:57
I want to meet an attorney that defends clients who run into flat earth problems. I want an attorney that knows and believes in flat earth theory.
19:05
i want a flat earther for president. i want a guy who posts on 4chan for president. i want someone who mogs for president.
Dkk
19:18
Exactly. My version of that awful poem.
Dkk
19:19
I can accept a president with maybe one or two of the poems traits hut good God, all of them??? No ty.
windyMagician
19:20
president who respects sex is crazy
windyMagician
19:20
we had bill clinton already
Dkk
19:21
Bill Clinton, first and last black president
windyMagician
19:23
I want to go running but my leg feels weird
windyMagician
19:23
it doesn't hurt its just tingly
Dkk
19:26
It needs more alcohol. You tingle when your nerves need watering.
19:27
try stretching it maybe to see what's up
windyMagician
19:27
stretches make me think it's just soreness
windyMagician
19:27
I'm sober lol
Dkk
19:38
Anyone else get the google notification that your LSD password has been compromised lol. LSD got hacked.
20:48
what.jpg @Dkk
CynicalOops
21:03
You think you just fell out of a coconut tree?
jackfrost11770
21:10
nope dk
CynicalOops
22:37
Calvinamala Harris
jackfrost11770
23:16
should i start using letterboxed again
Dkk
23:25
@jackfrost11770: if you want but like it aint for me
dk do u ever eat at bk
Dkk
23:48
@chickenburgahfart: I would do that in the Army if really desperate for food or if I had to work through lunch. One of the few fast food places I go to.
bk so slept on
Dkk
0:23
I will take In N Out everyday over it when I can though.
texaslawhopefully
1:22
In N Out is not only the best fast food place, but the prices too are fantastic
Dkk
1:27
Indeed, indeed.
BulbasaurNoLikeCardio
7:51
@texaslawhopefully: best prices and only fast food that doesn't make me sick
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