What does exclusive jurisdiction mean?

Exclusive jurisdiction refers to the specific authority granted to federal courts to hear particular types of cases that are defined by federal law. This means that for these certain cases, only federal courts have the power to make legal determinations, while state courts do not have the jurisdiction to hear these cases at all. This is essential for maintaining a uniform application of federal law across the country.

Examples of cases that fall under exclusive jurisdiction include bankruptcy cases, cases involving federal crimes, and disputes involving federal treaties. Because the federal government has vested authority over these matters, it is necessary to channel them through the appropriate federal judicial system to ensure consistency and adherence to national standards. This concept is foundational in understanding the division of powers within the judicial system, highlighting the delineation between state and federal cases.