Civil Procedure Multistate Bar Practice Exam

Which type of cases cannot be heard in state courts?

1. Negligence claims

2. Patent infringement and bankruptcy

3. Contract disputes

4. Real property disputes

The correct answer is: Patent infringement and bankruptcy

State courts generally have broad jurisdiction and can hear a wide variety of cases, including negligence claims, contract disputes, and real property disputes. However, certain specialized types of cases fall exclusively under federal jurisdiction. Patent infringement and bankruptcy are examples of such cases. Patent infringement cases arise under federal patent law, which is governed by federal statutes, and they typically must be brought in federal court. Similarly, bankruptcy cases are solely within the jurisdiction of federal courts due to the uniform application of federal bankruptcy laws across all states. Because of this specialization in federal law, both patent infringement and bankruptcy cases cannot be heard in state courts, which is why this option is the correct answer. These limitations on state court jurisdiction are essential to maintaining a uniform legal framework for these specific areas of law, ensuring that such cases are dealt with by courts that are specifically equipped to interpret federal law.