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practical construction

Defined in 3 dictionaries — Case Law, Cyclopedic (1922), Ballentine's (1916)

Definitions from Case Law

From 73 U.S. 773 - Cavazos v. Trevino · 1867Most cited · 30 citing opinions

The practical interpretation which the parties, by their conduct, have given to a written instrument in cases like this, is always admitted, and is entitled to weight. There is no better test of the intention of the instrument. None are less likely to be mistaken.

The Cyclopedic Law Dictionary

Walter A. Shumaker and George Foster Longsdorf; ed. James C. Cahill · 1922

Of a Statute. One determined by long-established procedure under it, to which deference will be paid by the courts in interpreting the statute, if possible, without doing violence to its terms. 16 Ohio, 559; 49 Mo. 404; 93 111. 191. Of a Contract. That given to the contract by the parties, and under which they acted in performing it. Such an interpretation will be effectuated by the court, if possible. 76 U. S. 50; 80 U. S. 608; 41 Minn. 308; 41 Neb. 56; 67 Vt. 1.

Ballentine's Law Dictionary

James A. Ballentine · 1916

Interpretation sanctioned by usage or custom, as distinguished from judicial construction. See 36 Fla. 519, 51 Am. St. Rep. 44, 29 L. R. A. 507, 18 South. 444.