Final answer:
d. Case law and judicial decisions
Statutory interpretation of federal legislation is primarily governed by case law and judicial decisions, which establish legal precedents through the process of judicial review. The principle of stare decisis ensures that these precedents guide future court interpretations.
Step-by-step explanation:
What governs statutory interpretation with respect to federal legislation? The primary driver behind statutory interpretation, particularly for federal legislation, is case law and judicial decisions.
These interpretations are established through a process called judicial review, where courts interpret and apply laws, and determine their constitutionality as they relate to specific cases. Notably, the Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison established the importance of the judiciary in this regard, through the process of informal amendment.
Legal doctrines like stare decisis also play a crucial role. This Latin term, which means "stand by the decision," refers to the legal principle of respecting precedents set by earlier judicial decisions. These precedents guide judges in interpreting and applying laws in subsequent cases, ensuring consistency and predictability within the legal system.