Table of Contents
Federal court jurisdiction determines which cases can be heard in federal courts. Understanding this helps citizens know when their legal matters fall under federal authority versus state courts. This article outlines the key aspects of federal court jurisdiction.
Types of Federal Court Jurisdiction
Federal courts have two main types of jurisdiction: subject matter jurisdiction and personal jurisdiction. Subject matter jurisdiction refers to the authority to hear specific types of cases, while personal jurisdiction relates to the court’s power over the parties involved.
Subject Matter Jurisdiction
Federal courts can hear cases based on federal laws, the U.S. Constitution, or disputes involving parties from different states. These cases include:
- Cases involving federal statutes
- Cases arising under the U.S. Constitution
- Diversity jurisdiction cases where parties are from different states and the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000
Exclusive and Concurrent Jurisdiction
Some federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction, meaning only federal courts can hear certain cases. Others have concurrent jurisdiction, allowing both federal and state courts to hear the same case.
How Citizens Are Affected
Citizens should know whether their legal issues involve federal jurisdiction to determine where to file a case. This knowledge can affect the legal process, potential outcomes, and applicable laws.