What defines the "Letter of the Law"?

The concept of the "Letter of the Law" refers to the strict application of laws as they are written, without considering the intent behind the law or the broader context in which it operates. This approach emphasizes adherence to the exact wording of legislative texts, suggesting that the rules should be applied in a straightforward manner, without inferring additional meanings or considerations.

In legal interpretations, adhering to the "Letter of the Law" ensures that there is a clear and predictable standard that can be followed. This can be important in legal proceedings where the precise language of statutes is often critical to determining the outcome of cases. By focusing solely on what the law explicitly states, this method can help maintain consistency in legal judgments and enforceability.

The other options involve interpretations that either consider intent, context, or rely on previous legal decisions, which diverges from the notion of strictly following the written law as it appears.