Plain Meaning Rule

The Plain Meaning Rule is a legal principle used to interpret contracts and statutes. It states that if the wording of a document is clear and unambiguous, courts should interpret it based on its plain and ordinary meaning, without looking into outside information or trying to find hidden meanings. This approach respects the intent of the drafters by giving effect to the straightforward language they used. Essentially, if the language is clear, it should be understood as it naturally reads, ensuring objectivity and consistency in legal interpretation.