Jurisdiction can also be based on the subject matter of the case. For example, criminal courts handle 
criminal matters, tax courts handle tax matters, and customs and patent courts handle patent matters. 
Regarding “subject matter jurisdiction” Kerper (1979, 34) noted, 
“The [subject matter] jurisdictional distinction . . . tends to be utilized primarily in distinguishing 
between different trial courts.  Appellate courts ordinarily can hear all types of cases, although there 
are several states that have separate appellate courts for criminal and civil appeals. At the trial level, 
most states have established one or more specialized courts to deal with particular legal fields. The 
most common areas delegated to specialized courts are wills and estates (assigned to courts 
commonly known as probate . . . courts), divorce, adoption or other aspects of family law (family or 
domestic relations courts), and actions based on the English law of equity (chancery courts). The 
federal system also includes specialized courts for such areas as customs and patents. While 
significant, the specialized courts represent only a small portion of all trial courts. Most trial courts 
are not limited to a particular subject but may deal with all fields.  Such trial courts are commonly 
described as having general jurisdiction since they cover the general (i.e., non-specialized) areas of 
law. Criminal cases traditionally are assigned to courts with general jurisdiction.” 
1 
Jurisdiction Based on the Seriousness of the Case 
The jurisdiction of trial courts may also be based on the seriousness of the case. For example, some 
courts, called courts of limited jurisdiction only have authority to try infractions, violations, and petty 
crimes (misdemeanors) whereas other trial courts, called courts of general jurisdiction, have authority to 
try serious crimes (felonies) as well as minor crimes and offenses. 
 Jurisdiction Based on the Court’s Authority over the Parties to the Case 
Jurisdiction also refers to the court’s authority over the parties in the case. For example, juvenile courts 
have jurisdiction over dependency and delinquency cases involving youth. Other courts have jurisdiction 
that is based on the special nature of the parties are the military tribunals, including courts-martial, Courts 
of Criminal Appeals, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Services. 
1. Kerper, H. B. (1979). Introduction to the criminal justice system (2nd ed.). West Publishing Company. 
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