Addison, a Michigan resident and Joey, a Wisconsin resident, got into a fight while at a pet food convention in New York state. It seems that Joey had been enjoying the catnip-infused vodka shots offered by Pikabu’s Pet Foods when Addison accidentally bumped into him. Words were exchanged, and the fight began. During the altercation, Joey injured Addison’s nose to the point where it required stitches. Addison wants to sue Joey as well as Pikabu’s Pet Foods for her injuries.

a. What court system has subject matter jurisdiction – state or federal?

b. If Addison sues in Michigan state courts, will Joey be subject to the state’s jurisdiction? Will Pikabu’s? What might a better state be for Addison to sue in?

c. Assume Addison successfully gets jurisdiction over Joey and Pikabu’s in Michigan courts. Assault is a state law issue. What state’s law is Michigan likely to apply when deciding the matter?