Forum shopping refers to the strategy used by litigants to choose a specific court to file their case, aiming for a more favorable outcome. This practice is particularly common among foreign litigants who may find the U.S. legal system appealing due to its broad acceptance of personal jurisdiction and its generally favorable litigation environment.
Forum shopping is primarily seen in civil litigation, where plaintiffs select a court that they believe will be more sympathetic to their case. This can involve various legal areas, including contract disputes, tort claims, and family law matters. Users can often manage these processes themselves with the help of legal templates available through services like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, a plaintiff may choose to file a lawsuit in a state known for its pro-plaintiff rulings if they believe their case will be better received there. (Hypothetical example)
| State | Forum Shopping Characteristics |
|---|---|
| California | Allows for extensive forum shopping due to multiple jurisdictions. |
| Delaware | Known for corporate law, often attracts business litigation. |
| Texas | Has specific rules limiting forum shopping in certain cases. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Venue Shopping | Choosing a specific location within a jurisdiction to file a case. |
| Jurisdiction Shopping | Selecting a court based on its authority over the case. |
If you find yourself needing to choose a forum for your case, consider consulting with a legal professional to understand your options. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you navigate the filing process effectively.
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Forum shopping is the practice of choosing a court that is likely to provide a favorable outcome for a case.