legislative intent

noun

: the ends sought to be achieved by a legislature in an enactment

Note: Courts often look to legislative intent for guidance in interpreting and applying a law. The legislative history, the language of the law, and the wrong to be corrected may provide indications of the legislative intent.

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Cite this Entry

“Legislative intent.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/legislative%20intent. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

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