Civil Procedure Multistate Bar Practice Exam

In which situation is general personal jurisdiction most likely to be found?

1. When the defendant has minimal contacts with the forum.

2. When the defendant is physically present in the state for a short time.

3. When the defendant is domiciled or has substantial business operations in the forum state.

4. When the defendant's actions in another state lead to harm in the forum state.

The correct answer is: When the defendant is domiciled or has substantial business operations in the forum state.

General personal jurisdiction is most likely established when a defendant is domiciled in or has substantial business operations in the forum state. This concept is grounded in the principle that a court in a particular state has the authority to exercise jurisdiction over a defendant if that individual or entity has a significant and ongoing presence in that state. When a defendant is domiciled in the forum state, it indicates that the individual has a fixed, permanent home there and is therefore subject to the jurisdiction of that state's courts for any claims that arise, regardless of where the claims occurred. Similarly, substantial business operations imply a level of engagement and presence that goes beyond mere contact or an incidental presence, establishing a continuous and systematic relationship with the state. The other options do not fulfill the requirements for general personal jurisdiction as clearly. Minimal contacts, as referenced in one option, might support specific jurisdiction but not general jurisdiction. A brief physical presence in the state, mentioned in another option, would typically not be sufficient to establish general jurisdiction, as it lacks the necessary ongoing connection. Lastly, injuries that occur due to actions taken in another state do not bring a defendant under the general jurisdiction of the forum state unless there are significant ties or residence established. Thus, option C best represents the scenario where