Preamble
A Dictionary of Law · William C. Anderson · 1889
A Dictionary of Law
3 An introduction or preface. 1.
A clause introductory to, and explanatory of, the reasons for estab Ushing a constitution. Preamble} to the Constitution of the United States: " We the people of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquillity, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America." This preamble has been constantly referred to by statesmen and jurists to aid them in expounding the provisions of the Constitution.*
See Welfare.
3.
The introductory clause or section of a statute, ordinance, or other like enactment. Usually recites the motives for passing the enactment. Eef erred to when doubts and ambiguities arise upon the words of the enacting part. Its office is to expound powers conferred, not substantially to create 1 Sabariego v. Maverick, 134 U. S. 334 (1888); 3 Best, Ev. §§ 353, 363.
23 Wbart. Ev. §§ 1338-37; 1 Greenl. Ev. § 15, note; 3 Best, Ev. § 306. 8 L. prce-ambulare, to go before., powers.
It serves as a guide to the intentions of the framers, -B-hich is only the first stage on the road to construction. Not being an essential part of a statute, it is frequently omitted. * 3. A recital in a contract declaring the intention of the parties.
See Contract.