Literal construction

--- Literal construction --- Ordinary and natural meaning --- Scope --- In interpreting a statute and determining the significance of its expressions, words, and legal effect, which is ultimately a question of law, our starting point must always be the words of the statute itself --- The rationale for beginning with the ordinary and natural meaning of the statutory language is that legislation is often drafted to address specific situations in clear and straightforward terms --- In such instances, the words used are precise and are not intended to extend beyond their plain scope or to be expanded into broader contexts --- Since the primary objective of statutory interpretation is to ascertain the intention of the lawmaker, the most appropriate and reliable method is to commence with the ordinary and clear meaning of the words used.

--- Literal construction --- Ordinary and natural meaning --- Scope --- Where the language of the legislature is express and unequivocal, the courts are not at liberty to qualify, dilute, or contradict it.