What does general jurisdiction allow a court to do?

General jurisdiction refers to a court's ability to hear a wide range of cases and is not limited by the subject matter or specific claims involved. When a court has general jurisdiction, it can entertain virtually any legal claim against a defendant, provided that the court is located in the relevant geographical area and has the authority to handle matters concerning the parties involved. This broad power means that the court can address both civil and criminal cases, allowing it to resolve all types of disputes as long as they are within the jurisdiction of that court.

This is distinct from specific jurisdiction, which only allows a court to hear cases related to specific events or transactions connected to the defendant. While other options may refer to limited aspects of judicial powers, they do not encompass the comprehensive scope of general jurisdiction that gives courts the authority to address all claims against an entity. This characteristic of general jurisdiction makes it a fundamental principle within civil procedure, ensuring that a party can seek relief in a court that can fully adjudicate their claims without restrictions based on the nature of those claims.