2. Law Applied By Federal Courts Flashcards
What is the Erie Doctrine?
A federal court must apply the substantive law of the state where they sit for state law claims under the Erie doctrine
This applies when the court has jurisdiction based on diversity or supplemental jurisdiction.
What procedural rules must a federal court sitting in diversity apply?
Federal procedural rules governing the issue in the case
This is applicable for all procedural issues.
What is a procedural issue?
Procedural issues pertain to the rules and processes that govern how a legal case is conducted.
Procedural issues do not determine the rights or wrongs of the actual dispute; instead, they address the mechanisms of resolving the dispute.
Examples of Procedural Issues
*How a lawsuit is filed (e.g., deadlines, format).
*Rules of evidence (what evidence is admissible in court).
*Conduct of a trial (e.g., jury selection, the order of presenting arguments).
*Appeals process and jurisdiction.
What are substantive issues?
Substantive issues relate to the actual claims and defenses, involving the core legal rights and obligations of the parties involved.
Determine the outcome of the dispute based on the applicable law.
Substantive issues decide the merits of the case, such as who is entitled to relief or liable for damages.
What conditions must be present for the Erie doctrine to apply?
- Subject-matter jurisdiction based on diversity or supplemental jurisdiction
- Conflict between state law and federal rule, statute, doctrine, or procedure
Both conditions must be present for the Erie doctrine to apply.
Are federal courts allowed to create laws to resolve state law claims?
No, federal courts are not allowed to create laws or choose among states’ laws to decide the claims
This rule reinforces the limits of federal court authority in state law matters.
When there is a conflict of laws as to a real property issue, what choice of laws should a state apply?
The state law should apply the choice of law rules where the property is located.
What must a federal court apply if there is a valid federal statute or constitutional provision on point with a state law?
The federal court MUST apply the relevant federal provision over state law
This rule ensures federal law takes precedence when applicable.
What happens if a federal rule abridges, modifies, or enlarges a substantive right of a state law?
The federal rule will NOT apply
This protects state substantive rights from federal encroachment.
What statute must federal courts apply in a diversity action regarding statute of limitations?
The statute of limitations of the state in which the court sits
This maintains consistency with state law practices.
What choice-of-law rules do federal courts in a diversity action apply?
The choice-of-law rules of the state in which the court is located
Courts must first decide the choice-of-law issue before applying substantive law.
What can a federal court do if it is uncertain about the state law to be followed?
- Abstain from hearing the state law claim
- Certify the question to state courts
- Predict how state courts would rule
These options help clarify the application of state law.
Do federal circuit courts of appeal give deference to district courts’ interpretations of unsettled state law?
No, they review those decisions de novo
This emphasizes the independence of appellate review in these matters.
What is the purpose of federal common law?
To interpret congressional intent or the meaning of statutes
This role is crucial in areas where Congress has not explicitly legislated.
When does federal common law exist?
- When Congress has given courts the power to make common law rules
- When Congress has been silent on a question involving federal law
These scenarios allow for the development of federal common law.
Under what conditions can federal common law preempt state law?
- Unique or peculiar federal interest
- State law is in direct conflict with federal law
This allows federal interests to take precedence in specific cases.
What governs when a federal court sitting in diversity issues a judgment?
Federal common law governs the preclusive effect of the earlier judgment on the current claim
This ensures consistency in legal outcomes across jurisdictions.
What factors allow federal courts to create federal common law rules?
- Federal or constitutional interests at stake
- Congress inadequately addressed the situation
- Unacceptable diversity or uncertainty from applying individual state laws
These factors guide the court’s discretion in creating common law.
What are common fields of law for federal common law?
- Maritime law
- Foreign relations
- Commercial rights and liabilities of the federal government
- Property rights and liabilities of the federal government
These areas are often governed by federal common law due to their national significance.
What takes precedence over common law rules?
Congressional actions
This ensures that legislative intent is prioritized over judicial interpretation.
