Subject Matter Jurisdiction

Question 1

What does a court with general subject matter jurisdiction have authority to hear?

Answer 1

Any type of action. NY Supreme Court has this.

Question 2

What are the exceptions to the Supreme Court’s general jurisdiction?

Answer 2

1. Cases with exclusive federal jurisdiction (eg, bankruptcy, patents, etc.)
2. Claims for money damages in tort or contract against NY State (brought in NY Court of Claims, NY State is only defendant in that court) Employees and subdivisions of state like cities, counties, towns dont count.

Question 3

What three types of action does the Supreme Court have exclusive Subject matter jurisdiction over?

Answer 3

Matrimonial action, CPLR Art 78 Proceeding, Declaratory judgment action.