If a statute is clear and not ambiguous, how will a court treat it in a ruling?

When a statute is clear and unambiguous, a court will generally not look beyond the words of the statute. This approach adheres to the principle of statutory interpretation known as "literal interpretation," which emphasizes that the plain meaning of the text should govern its application. Courts aim to give effect to the law as it is written, respecting the language chosen by the legislature.

This practice ensures that the law remains predictable and stable, allowing individuals and businesses to understand their rights and obligations without the uncertainty that can arise from subjective interpretations. If a statute's language is straightforward and comprehensible, the court focuses solely on those words and applies them as they are intended, rather than seeking external sources or motivations behind the statute's creation.