jurisdiction clause

A jurisdiction clause is a provision in a contract that refers disputes arising under the contract to a country, territory or place for hearing and determination. Jurisdiction clauses should be distinguished from choice of law clauses as the law of the contract may differ from the country within which disputes are heard.

In England, a standard form of jurisdiction clause that goes as far as is possible to prevent disputes being heard in other jurisdictions. The parties may also agree to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of a country, which does not prevent legal proceedings being brought in foreign countries.

Usage: The parties agreed that the jurisdiction clause would select English Courts for the resolution of disputes under the contract.

Related Words: jurisdiction; contract.