Final answer:
American law is deeply entrenched in English tradition, emphasizing the strict interpretation of written laws and judicial interpretation to adapt to modern circumstances. The language and concepts in legal English have evolved over centuries, reflecting the specificity and stability required in the legal profession.
Step-by-step explanation:
American Law and Its English Roots
The statement that American law is based on the English strict interpretation of written laws underscores the historical lineage of the U.S. legal system. The foundation of American legal English has significant historical ties to England, where it adapted elements like the importance of written documents, such as the Magna Carta, and works of legal scholars like Blackstone, in forming a comprehensive understanding of limited government and the rights of citizens.
Moreover, the common law system in the United States, as opposed to a code law system, is characterized by judicial interpretation and decision-making rather than purely applying codified laws. This system, inherited from medieval England, allows for a dynamic and adaptable legal tradition that can respond to contemporary issues and technological advancements not foreseen by the framers of ancestral legal documents.
The language utilized in the legal profession in both countries has unique historical characteristics. Words such as 'shall' and 'consideration' have specific imperatives and meanings in a legal context that are absent from everyday usage. Furthermore, the doubling of concepts like 'null and void' or phrases like 'pain and suffering' exemplify an attempt to eliminate ambiguity, ensuring clarity in judicial proceedings.
Thus, the American legal system's affinity for a strict interpretation of written laws is a reflection of its English heritage, emphasizing a stable legal framework while also acknowledging the necessity for interpretation to keep pace with societal changes.