Introduction to Specific Jurisdiction

This lesson is designed as an overview of specific jurisdiction. While we will review some of the most important precedents and their implications, our primary focus will be to put the doctrine in context and identify some of its major constitutional dimensions. Other lessons will explore more detailed aspects of the doctrine.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

1. Explain where specific jurisdiction fits into the requirement that courts need authority to adjudicate.
2. Describe the relationship of specific jurisdiction to general jurisdiction.
3. Distinguish the different threads of due process that constrain the exercise of specific jurisdiction, and the concepts of purposeful availment, targetting and relatedness.