What term refers to the right of a court to hear a case?

The term that refers to the right of a court to hear a case is jurisdiction. Jurisdiction is a fundamental concept in the judicial system as it establishes which court has the authority to adjudicate a particular matter. It can be based on various factors, including the subject matter of the case, the location where the events occurred, or the parties involved.

For instance, a state court typically has jurisdiction over cases arising within its state boundaries, while federal courts have jurisdiction over matters involving federal law or disputes between states. Determining jurisdiction is essential because a court lacking jurisdiction over a case cannot legally decide on the matter, which underscores why this term is critical in judicial proceedings.

The other terms relate to different aspects of the legal system. Standing pertains to the ability of a party to demonstrate a personal stake in the outcome of a case, litigation refers to the process of taking legal action, and an appeal is a request to a higher court to review a decision made by a lower court. Understanding the distinction between these concepts and jurisdiction is vital for grasping how the judicial branch operates.