Rules of Construction

Rules of Construction. The following rules of construction govern the administration and enforcement of this title: (a) As used in this title, unless it is otherwise provided or the context requires a different construction, application or meaning: (1) Words in the singular include the plural; (2) Words in the plural include the singular; (3) Words of the masculine gender include the feminine; and (4) Words used in the present tense include the future. (b) The terms “person,” “he,” “accused” and “defendant” include any natural person, male or female, and, where relevant, a corporation or an unincorporated association. (c) Words and phrases as used in this title shall be read within their context and shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the English language. Technical words and phrases, and such others as may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in the law, shall be construed and understood according to their peculiar and appropriate meaning. (d) The classification of the divisions, chapters, articles, and sections of this title, and the headings of each, are made for the purpose of convenient reference and orderly arrangement, and no implication, inference, or presumption of a legislative construction shall be drawn from those classifications and headings. (e) The provisions of this title shall be construed according to the plain meaning of their terms, with a view to effect its object and to promote justice. Source: PL 3-61, § 1 (§ 103).