Opinion ID: 1943617
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Statutory Interpretation Generally

Text: ¶ 12 The present case involves interpretation and clarification of the John Doe proceedings outlined in Wis. Stat. § 968.26. [T]he purpose of statutory interpretation is to determine what the statute means so that it may be given its full, proper, and intended effect. State ex rel. Kalal v. Circuit Court for Dane County, 2004 WI 58, ¶ 44, 271 Wis.2d 633, 681 N.W.2d 110. Our analysis `begins with the language of the statute.' Id., ¶ 45 (quoting Seider v. O'Connell, 2000 WI 76, ¶ 43, 236 Wis.2d 211, 612 N.W.2d 659). [S]tatutory language is interpreted in the context in which it is used; not in isolation but as part of a whole; in relation to the language of surrounding or closely-related statutes; and reasonably, to avoid absurd or unreasonable results. Id., ¶ 46. We strive where possible to give reasonable effect to every word, in order to avoid surplusage. Id.