What is Jurisdiction?
The authority of a court to hear and decide a case. A court must have both subject matter jurisdiction (authority over the type of case) and personal jurisdiction (authority over the parties).
Understanding Jurisdiction
Subject matter jurisdiction depends on the type of claim and the court system. Personal jurisdiction typically requires the defendant to have minimum contacts with the forum state. Cases can be dismissed if filed in a court that lacks jurisdiction. Federal courts have jurisdiction over federal questions and diversity cases exceeding $75,000.
Examples
- 1Filing a car accident case in the county where the crash occurred
- 2Federal court diversity jurisdiction for out-of-state defendants
- 3Challenging personal jurisdiction when sued in a distant state
Related Terms
Statute of Limitations
A law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. Once the statute of limitations expires, the claim is typically barred forever.
Settlement
An agreement between parties to resolve a legal dispute without going to trial. Settlements typically involve the defendant paying the plaintiff an agreed-upon sum in exchange for dropping the lawsuit.
Discovery
The pre-trial phase in a lawsuit where each party can obtain evidence from the opposing party through various methods including interrogatories, depositions, and requests for documents.
Deposition
Sworn, out-of-court testimony given by a witness or party that is recorded for later use in court proceedings. Depositions are a key part of the discovery process.
Demand Letter
A formal letter sent to an insurance company or opposing party outlining the facts of the case, injuries sustained, and the amount of compensation being sought.
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