An exception should always be placed last.

Explanation

In drafting, exceptions follow the statement of the general rule; an exception placed before its rule obscures the meaning and inverts the natural order of legislative expression.

Where this applies

• The exception should come after the general rule, not before it.
• An exception placed before its rule makes the document confusing.
• Proper drafting puts the rule first and the exception last.

See also

• 10.1.2 The best interpretation is drawn from what goes before and what follows.
• 10.6.4 General things precede, special things follow.