The Erie Doctrine

Answer 1

when
- in fed ct
- under diversity jurisdiction

Which law does the court apply?

in diversity cases a fed ct must apply sate substantive law
if issue is substantive = apply state law

Question 2

Hanna decision

Answer 2

is there a Fed provision that conflicts w state law?
= apply valid fed law

Fed Provision:
Constitution
Fed Statute
FRCP

Question 3

Rules Enabling Act

Answer 3

The Court: Fed Rule = valid IF
- does not modify substantive right
- arguably just procedural

Question 4

Shady Grove decision

Question 5

“true” Erie problem

Answer 5

if no federal provision applies

fed court must apply state law on substantive issue
Substantive?
- is it outcome determinative
- Byrd balancing
- Twin-aims

Question 6

Guaranty Trust decision

Answer 6

Statute of limitations = substantive law/issue bcs
- it is outcome determinative

Hypo: apply state law = case is barred by SOL
apply Fed law = case can proceed

different results in state / fed = “outcome determinative”

Question 7

Byrd decision

Answer 7

if law is not clearly substantive = follow state
unless, fed ct system has an interest in doing some diff

Key: balance the interests of the state and fed ct

seventh amendment

Question 8

Twin-aims

Answer 8

1. avoid forum shopping
2. avoid inequitable admin of law