Interpretation Acts
Origins and Meaning
By: Chad Jacobi
Barrister Chad Jacobi has created a unique and practical reference work in Interpretation Acts: Origins and Meaning. It is based on the premise that the Interpretation Acts, which are key tools to reading legislation in the various Australian jurisdictions, themselves need to be read as statutes, the meanings of which must be ascertained. Lawyers are often confronted with the - sometimes urgent - need to understand these provisions in the context of litigation, particularly in areas highly affected by statutory interpretation, like public law as well as criminal law, succession law, industrial law and tax. This text helps practitioners grasp the "how, what and why" of these provisions by looking to their origins: how they have come about, what has changed and what the authoritative decisions on their meaning are today. It is the first publication of its kind in Australia, presenting history that is not merely interesting on its own terms, but is important in the very practical context of law in operation. It is a must for every law library, private and public.
AI Overview
Comprehensive Overview of "Interpretation Acts: Origins and Meaning" by Chad Jacobi
Author and Background
- Author: Chad Jacobi, a barrister and later a King's Counsel (KC), has extensive experience in statutory interpretation and its practical applications in various legal fields.
Book Overview
- Title: "Interpretation Acts: Origins and Meaning"
- Publication Date: January 2019 (published by Lawbook Co., Australia)
- Purpose: The book is a unique and practical reference work aimed at helping practitioners understand the "how, what, and why" of Interpretation Acts in Australian jurisdictions. It emphasizes the need to read these acts as statutes, focusing on their origins, changes, and authoritative decisions on their meaning.
Key Themes
- Statutory Interpretation: The book delves into the principles and practices of statutory interpretation, highlighting how these acts inform and influence the reading of legislation.
- Origins and Evolution: It explores the historical development of Interpretation Acts, discussing how they have evolved over time and what changes have been made.
- Practical Applications: The text is designed to be practical, addressing the urgent need for understanding these provisions in the context of litigation, particularly in areas like public law, criminal law, succession law, industrial law, and tax.
Plot Summary
- The book does not follow a traditional narrative structure but rather presents a comprehensive analysis of Interpretation Acts. It includes:
- Historical context: The origins and development of these acts.
- Practical insights: How these acts are applied in various legal contexts.
- Authoritative decisions: A review of significant court decisions that have shaped the interpretation of these acts.
Critical Reception
- Academic and Professional Review: The book has been recognized as a valuable resource for legal practitioners and scholars. It is considered a must-have for every law library, both private and public, due to its practical and historical approach to statutory interpretation.
- Specific Praise: While specific reviews are not detailed in the available sources, the book's unique approach and practical focus have been highlighted as significant contributions to the field of statutory interpretation.
Additional Information
- The book is available in print and digital formats, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Chad Jacobi has also co-authored a chapter on the future of statutory interpretation, further solidifying his expertise in the field.
In summary, "Interpretation Acts: Origins and Meaning" by Chad Jacobi is a seminal work that provides a deep dive into the history, evolution, and practical applications of Interpretation Acts in Australian jurisdictions. Its comprehensive analysis and practical insights make it an essential resource for legal practitioners and scholars.