When courts interpret the law, they primarily use the following as a guide:
1. The Constitution: The Constitution serves as the supreme law of the land in the United States. Courts often look to the Constitution to interpret and apply laws in a manner consistent with its principles and values. It provides the framework for the legal system and outlines the powers of the government, including the separation of powers.
2. English Common Law: Common law is a legal system where decisions by courts establish precedent for future cases. In the United States, many legal principles have roots in English Common Law. Courts often consider past decisions and legal principles developed under common law when interpreting laws.
3. Legal Precedents: Courts rely on legal precedents or prior court decisions when interpreting the law. Precedents help ensure consistency and predictability in legal outcomes. Judges often look to how previous cases were decided to guide their interpretation of current laws.
By using these guides, courts can interpret laws in a manner that is consistent with legal principles, historical decisions, and the fundamental values outlined in the Constitution.
