Good Faith Begins with Definitions

It is March 26. Welcome to yestohellwith.com.

You think you know what “person” means.You don’t.

Words matter.

But not in the way most people think.

In law, words are not used casually.

They are defined—precisely, and often narrowly—within a specific context.

Words like:

personincomeUnited StatesState

These are not general terms.

They are legal constructs.

And if you assume you know what they mean…you assume the obligations attached to them.

The courts have emphasized the importance of clear definitions and fair notice.

In Connally v. General Construction Co., the Court held that vague or unclear terms cannot form the basis of enforcement.

Why?

Because people must understand what applies to them.

Good faith begins here.

With definitions.

Because if you misunderstand the words—you misunderstand the law.

And if you misunderstand the law—you misapply it to yourself.

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