Legal Definitions - contemporaneous and practical interpretation

Definition: Contemporaneous and practical interpretation refers to an interpretation given at or near the time when a writing was prepared, usually by one or more persons involved in its preparation. It is also known as practical construction, practical interpretation, or contemporaneous and practical interpretation. This type of interpretation is used to determine the meaning and intention of a document, such as a constitution, statute, or contract, in accordance with judicial standards.

Example: A contract is signed between two parties, and a dispute arises over the meaning of a particular clause. The court may look to the contemporaneous and practical interpretation of the clause, which would involve examining any discussions or negotiations that took place between the parties at the time the contract was signed. This can help to determine the intended meaning of the clause and resolve the dispute.

Contemporaneous and practical interpretation is important because it can provide insight into the intended meaning of a document at the time it was created. This can be especially useful in legal disputes where the meaning of a particular clause or provision is in question.