BLAW 2301 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2.3: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Diversity Jurisdiction, Probate Court
Document Summary
Alternative dispute resolution: formal or informal processes used to settle disputes without resorting to a trial. Popular with corporations and individuals for cheaper and faster than litigation. One nationwide system of federal courts serve the entire country. Individual state court system: each have minor variations on the system, trial courts. Only court to hear testimony from witness and receive evidence. Determine the facts of a particular dispute and apply the law given by earlier court decisions. Jurisdiction - court"s power to hear a case. State of federal court, plaintiff may start a lawsuit only in a court that has jurisdiction over that kind of case. Courts have limited jurisdiction, others have all the power: subject matter jurisdiction. Court has authority to hear a particular type of case. Limited jurisdiction - these courts may only hear certain types of cases. Small courts deal with civil lawsuits involving a maximum. Probate court - settling cases of deceased persons.