last antecedent rule

noun

Legal Definition of last antecedent rule

: a doctrine in the interpretation of statutes: qualifying words or phrases refer only to the last antecedent word or phrase unless the context or entire act clearly requires otherwise

— called also last antecedent doctrine

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Dictionary Entries Near last antecedent rule

larceny by trick

larceny from the person

lascivious

last antecedent rule

last clear chance

last in, first out

last injurious exposure rule

Cite this Entry

“Last antecedent rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/last%20antecedent%20rule. Accessed 23 Jun. 2021.

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