In the context of personal jurisdiction, what is the difference between "general jurisdiction" and "specific jurisdiction?"

Question

Explain the difference between "general jurisdiction" and "specific jurisdiction."

Answer 1

General jurisdiction is when the court has the power to hear all types of cases which includes civil, criminal, family, etc.. In the context of personal jurisdiction, normally the state court would have general jurisdiction over a defendant who resides in the state where the legal action is filed. Specific jurisdiction exists when the state is alleged to have jurisdiction over the defendant due to the defendant's activities in the state which is the defendant's home state. With respect to corporations as defendants, general jurisdiction exists if the corporation is incorporated, has its principal place of business in that state or has continuous and systematic activities within the state.