§ 581-704 Interpretation

This section explains how to read words used in this law. If a rule uses a word like "person" in the singular, it can also mean more than one person, unless the situation clearly calls for just one. The same works the other way around: if a rule uses a plural word, it can also apply to just one person or thing, unless the context makes clear that only many were meant.

This kind of rule exists so that lawmakers do not have to write out both the singular and plural version of every word in every law. It also helps courts and people involved in a case understand that the law should be read in a practical, common sense way. In short, this section just gives basic guidance on how to interpret wording elsewhere in the law, not a rule about custody, support, or any specific legal issue.