Federal jurisdiction (United States)

Federal jurisdiction refers to the legal scope of the government's powers in the United States of America.

Under clause 17 Article I Section 8 of the Constitution however, Congress has power to "exercise exclusive Legislation in all cases whatsoever" over the federal district (Washington, D.C.) and other territory ceded to the federal government by the states, such as for military installations.

Federal jurisdiction exists over any territory thus subject to laws enacted by the Congress.

The non-governmental party may raise claims or defenses relating to alleged constitutional violation(s) by the government.

If the non-governmental party loses, the constitutional issue may form part of the appeal.

If the Supreme Court grants certiorari and accepts the case, it will receive written briefs from each side (and any amici curiae or friends of the court—usually interested third parties with some expertise to bear on the subject) and schedule oral arguments.

Each opinion sets forth the facts, prior decisions, and legal reasoning behind the position taken.