California, United States of America
The following excerpt is from Lee v. Hanley, 191 Cal.Rptr.3d 536, 354 P.3d 334, 61 Cal.4th 1225 (Cal. 2015):
ordinary meaning, and [i]f there is no ambiguity, then we presume the lawmakers meant what they said, and the plain meaning of the language governs. ... If, however, the statutory language is ambiguous, we may resort to extrinsic sources, including the ostensible objects to be achieved and the legislative history. ... Ultimately we choose the construction that comports most closely with the apparent intent of the lawmakers, with a view to promoting rather than defeating the general purpose of the statute. (Mays v. City of Los Angeles (2008) 43 Cal.4th 313, 321, 74 Cal.Rptr.3d 891, 180 P.3d 935, citations omitted.)
The above passage should not be considered legal advice. Reliable answers to complex legal questions require comprehensive research memos. To learn more visit www.alexi.com.