How Do You File A Suit In US District Court?
The large majority of lawsuits are tried in state court. You may file suit in federal district court only if the court has jurisdiction over the subject matter of the lawsuit and the parties involved in the lawsuit. Federal jurisdiction applies to suits that arise under federal law—patent infringement or a civil rights matter, for example. Federal courts also have jurisdiction if you are suing someone from another state or country. This jurisdiction, based on the diversity of the parties’ citizenship, takes effect only when you are asking for $75,000 or more in damages. Research the laws and procedures governing your suit. Law libraries may be found in public libraries, law schools and county courts. Most are open to the public. Resources for Attorneys (see the Resources section) offers a directory to law libraries. The U.S. Codes, Federal Rules of Procedure and federal court decisions govern federal matters. Determine the appropriate District Court for filing your suit. The federal
