Jurisdiction

/ˌdʒʊrɪsˈdɪkʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The official power to make legal decisions and judgments.

The court has jurisdiction over cases involving federal laws.

The extent of the power to make legal decisions, often limited to a specific geographic area or subject matter.

The police have jurisdiction to enforce the law within the city limits.

A system of courts and the authority of those courts.

The state’s jurisdiction includes family law, criminal law, and civil law.

The authority to govern or legislate.

The new law fell under the jurisdiction of the state government.

The area within which a particular set of laws or rules applies.

The company operates in jurisdictions that have strict environmental regulations.

From Latin 'jurisdictio', from 'jus' (law) and 'dicere' (to say).

under one's jurisdiction

Referring to the area or matter that is governed by someone's authority.

outside jurisdiction

Referring to matters or areas not governed by a particular authority.

concurrent jurisdiction

When two or more authorities have the right to hear and decide the same case.

jurisprudence

The theory or philosophy of law.

legal

Relating to the law.

litigation

The process of taking legal action.

Jurisdictional overreach

Some argue that the new law is an example of jurisdictional overreach by federal agencies.

Jurisdiction hopping

The defense attorney was skilled at jurisdiction hopping to find favorable courts.