Diversity of Citizenship

Diversity of citizenship establishes an important legal precedent related to the difference between state and federal jurisdiction. Yet most Americans have never even heard this term. Read on to learn more, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney if you have been accused of a federal crime.

What Is Diversity of Citizenship?

Diversity of citizenship refers to cases where opposing parties involved in a lawsuit are citizens of different states or countries. If one of these parties is a corporation, they are defined as a citizen of the state where their business operates or is incorporated. If diversity of citizenship is in play, a case between two parties will fall under federal court jurisdiction, per Article III, section 2 of the United States Constitution.

This is significant, given the standard rules regarding state and federal court jurisdiction. Most civil cases, i.e. cases between two parties, start at the state rather than the federal level. However, a civil case will become a federal case under diversity of citizenship law.

A civil action in which jurisdiction is established by diversity of citizenship law may be adjudicated in:

• A judicial court where any and all defendants reside, if every defendant is a resident of the same state;
• A judicial district where the majority of the events pertaining to the case took place, or where the majority of the property related to the case is located; or
• A judicial district where any and all defendants may be subject to jurisdiction based on when the events related to the case took place, assuming there are no other districts where the case may otherwise be tried.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer for Your Federal Case

At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C.,  we are known for defending multiple kinds of federal criminal charges. From white collar crimes, to drug trafficking, to mortgage fraud, to conspiracy charges, our Plano criminal defense attorney has the skill and experience to fight for you in court. We offer free, confidential case consultations to ensure you feel comfortable before committing to anything. With 18 years of experience and 300 trial acquittals for our clients, we are well-versed in a number of legal techniques, so you will have assistance tailored specifically to your case. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we treat all our clients with respect and compassion, and promise to work tirelessly to restore your rights.

Give us a call now at 214-544-0061 to take the first step towards justice, or contact us online at your earliest convenience.