What is the primary factor influencing legislative interpretation?

Legislative intent is the primary factor influencing legislative interpretation because it focuses on the purpose and objectives that lawmakers had in mind when enacting a statute. Understanding legislative intent helps legal professionals and courts interpret the language of the law in a way that aligns with the aims and policies the legislature sought to achieve. This approach ensures that the law is applied effectively to achieve its intended consequences.

While social context, consistency with other laws, and judicial precedent are also relevant factors that can influence interpretation, they primarily serve to inform or contextualize the analysis rather than directly reflecting the foundational goal behind a legislative act. Legislative intent drives the interpretation process, allowing courts and legal practitioners to stay true to the specific aims and goals of the legislature, thereby promoting a more consistent and accurate application of the law.