STRICT CONSTRUCTIONISM

strict constructionism, n. The doctrinal view of judicial construction holding that judges should interpret a document or statute (esp. one involving penal sanctions) according to its literal terms, without looking to other sources to ascertain the meaning. — Also termed strict construction; literal canon; literal rule; textualism. [Cases: Contracts 143(1); Statutes 235, 241(1). C.J.S. Contracts […]