12-2A-18: Principles of construction; presumption.

A. A statute or rule is construed, if possible, to:

(1) give effect to its objective and purpose;

(2) give effect to its entire text; and

(3) avoid an unconstitutional, absurd or unachievable result.

B. A statute that is intended to be uniform with those of other states is construed to effectuate that purpose with respect to the subject of the statute.

C. The presumption that a civil statute in derogation of the common law is construed strictly does not apply to a statute of this state.