Which institution is primarily responsible for interpreting laws?

• A. Legislative branch
• B. Executive branch
• C. Judicial branch
• D. Administrative agencies

Answer: (C)

Interpreting laws is the function of the judiciary. Courts read statutes passed by the legislature, resolve ambiguities in their language, determine legislative intent, and apply the meaning of those laws to specific cases. This process ensures that laws are understood and applied consistently and that constitutional limits are respected. While the legislative branch writes the rules and the executive branch enforces them, the decisive interpretive role—especially when disputes arise—belongs to the courts, which can review laws for constitutionality. Administrative agencies may provide interpretations in enforcing regulations, but those interpretations are not the final authority in legal interpretation and are subject to judicial review.