Interpreting the Law

Like learning correct biblical exegesis, law students learn specific ways to interpret statutes (laws). This invovles going after the clear meaning of the text, interpreting it within the scope and intention of the act and then how it has been interpreted by the courts. It can be a very tedious process. However, sometimes the legislators make it easy for us by providing some very nice definitions. Here are two of my favourites:

The Wrongs Act 1958 (Vic) provides us with a handy definition for "significant risks":

risks that are not insignificant are all risks other than insignificant risks and include, but are not limited to, significant risks. s48(3)(b)

In a similar circular fashion the Criminal Code 2002 (ACT) explains what offence we committ while attempting to committ an offence:

If a person attempts to commit an offence, the person commits the offence of attempting to commit that offence. s44(1)

Okay, right?