Jurisdiction

Jurisdiction is the official power to make legal decisions and judgments. In the United States, the Judiciary derives its power from the U.S. Constitution. There are three main components: Subject-Matter Jurisdiction, Personal Jurisdiction, and Territorial Jurisdiction. As explained by Cornell Law School, a court must have authority over both the type of case and the parties involved. The principle of Sovereignty ensures that a state has exclusive power within its borders. In cases of International Law, Universal Jurisdiction may apply to specific heinous crimes. The Supreme Court often clarifies these boundaries to ensure Due Process. For further reading, visit the Encyclopedia Britannica.

• Venue
• Standing
• Choice of Law
• Adjudication