Erie Doctrine

Question 1

What is the Erie Doctrine?

Answer 1

Under the Erie Doctrine, a federal court sitting in diversity jurisdiction MUST apply the substantive law of the forum state in which it sits.

However, federal courts are free to apply their own rules to procedural issues.

Question 2

Are choice of law issues considered substantive?

Answer 2

YES:

Choice of law issues are considered substantive; therefore, a federal court sitting in diversity MUST apply the forum state’s choice of law rules.