← Legal Glossary
Subject-Matter Jurisdiction
Definition
A court's authority to hear a particular type of case based on the nature of the claim or the parties involved. Federal courts have subject-matter jurisdiction over federal questions (claims arising under federal law) and diversity cases (claims between citizens of different states involving amounts exceeding $75,000). A court lacking subject-matter jurisdiction cannot hear a case regardless of personal jurisdiction.
Examples
- •Cisco's claims against foreign defendants may arise under federal law, potentially giving federal courts subject-matter jurisdiction, but this must be established before disclosure is compelled