Define: Long-Arm Statute

A long-arm statute is a legal provision that extends the jurisdiction of a court beyond the boundaries of its own state or country, allowing it to exercise authority over out-of-state or foreign defendants who have sufficient contacts with the jurisdiction. These statutes enable courts to assert jurisdiction over non-resident individuals or entities in civil or criminal cases, typically based on specific criteria, such as conducting business within the jurisdiction, committing tortious acts within the jurisdiction, or entering into contracts or transactions related to the jurisdiction. Long-arm statutes are designed to ensure that defendants who have significant connections or interactions with a jurisdiction can be held accountable for their actions or disputes arising within that jurisdiction, even if they are not physically present there. These statutes help promote fairness, efficiency, and access to justice by allowing plaintiffs to pursue legal remedies against non-resident defendants without having to initiate separate proceedings in multiple jurisdictions.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.