Topic: Federal Jurisdiction

Welcome to the Discussion Board. This is where you will have an opportunity to explore topics, practice research, and hone citation. Jurisdiction plays a key role in determining the appropriate law on point. Federal Jurisdiction is reserved for questions of federal law or in special circumstances such as diversity of citizenship. State Courts hold jurisdiction to hear cases arising under that state's laws, and, generally, anything that does not fall under federal jurisdiction. Sometimes, jurisdiction can be held by either federal or state court based on the cause of action alleged or be exclusively handled by the federal or state specialty. There are four primary sources of law: Constitutional Law, Statutory Law, Case Law, and Rules/Regulations. While you will review all, this week's discussion will focus on determining jurisdiction and identifying the law on point.

Zane Dane was on a once in a lifetime trip to visit every state in the continental United States in his RV named Reva. Zane and his RV Reva passed through EVERY state and had a few legal challenges along the way. Please identify the jurisdiction and type of law to research for each of Zane's legal misadventures.

During a stop at the Grand Canyon, in Arizona, Zane backed Reva into a small motorcycle belonging to the Arizona park ranger, crushing its tire. The damages were assessed at $300. Is this a federal or a state case? Which of the four primary sources of law would be on point for this research?

After the Grand Canyon, Zane and his RV, Reva, traveled to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan. Zane headed out in his kayak to explore some of the picturesque rock formations along the shore when he witnessed a man killing an endangered plover bird with a bow. Zane learns later of the arrest and realizes he witnesses that crime from his kayak. He calls the local police to advise them of what he had heard. If Zane is called as a witness, would he be testifying in state court or federal court? How can we make that determination