Interpretation theories in Ukrainian courts — Past and present

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the issue of legal interpretation, and in particular to its aspect of being an art, and the way the three main interpretation theories fit into the artistic concept of interpretation. This concept is also used to analyze the state of legal interpretation conducted by Ukrainian courts, as well as tendencies of its development. The author first provides a brief overview of the concept of interpretation generally, and legal interpretation particularly. Then he elaborates briefly on the issue of the artistic nature of interpretation as a skill of a human being. This is followed by an analysis of the Ukrainian legal system supported by the example of a recent case, and the author concludes with his ideas on the working practical combination of the theories of interpretation to be beneficial for both the Ukrainian and other legal systems.