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Civil procedure

subject matter jurisdiction

Subject matter jurisdiction defines a court’s power to decide a lawsuit involving a particular subject matter, and to render an enforceable judgment. A court generally has jurisdiction when the particular claim raised in the case is within its constitutional jurisdiction—as provided by the state constitution or the U.S. Constitution—or because jurisdiction has been mandated by the state legislature or the United States Congress.

In Georgia, subject matter jurisdiction refers to a court's authority to hear and decide cases of a specific nature. The Georgia Constitution and various statutes establish the scope of subject matter jurisdiction for different courts within the state. For example, the Superior Courts in Georgia have general jurisdiction and can hear a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, and domestic relations matters. On the other hand, State Courts have jurisdiction over misdemeanors and civil actions, but not over felony cases or equity matters. Probate Courts handle wills, estates, and similar issues. The jurisdiction of each court is defined by the Georgia Code and is limited to the types of cases the legislature or Congress has empowered them to hear. Additionally, the U.S. Constitution can confer subject matter jurisdiction to federal courts for certain cases, such as those involving federal laws, disputes between states, or cases where the United States is a party.

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Civil procedure

subject matter jurisdiction

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Georgia State Code

Georgia State Code

Civil procedure

subject matter jurisdiction

Articles