So the law is written.

Explanation

Where the written law is clear and unambiguous, courts must apply it as written without adding to it or subtracting from it — the plain text governs, however harsh the result may seem.

Where this applies

• A statute clearly states that property taxes are due on January 1, and a taxpayer who pays on January 2 is subject to penalties because the court must apply the law as written, regardless of how minor the delay.
• A contract unambiguously requires delivery by a specific date, and the court enforces the deadline strictly because the written terms are clear.
• A constitutional provision plainly requires a two-thirds vote for amendments, and the court refuses to accept a simple majority vote because the text is unambiguous and must be followed as written.