The Application of Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 4(k)(2) in Admiralty: National Contacts for a Worldwide Industry
Journal of Maritime Law and Commerce, Vol. 29, p. 79, 1998
28 Pages Posted: 9 Dec 2011
Date Written: January 1, 1998
Abstract
It seems federal courts, applying federal law, should be able to exercise jurisdiction over parties having adequate contacts with the United States. This is especially important in admiralty actions, which often implicate worldwide commerce and involve substantial ties with the United States. Rule 4 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and its later versions deal with such issues yet do not clearly define the aspects. Despite the confusion relating to Rule 4(k)(2)’s coverage, the author believes that the rule does apply to admiralty cases and that the several court decisions that have so held should be followed. Beginning with a short history of national contacts jurisprudence and the adoption of Rule 4(k)(2), this article next reviews the relevant case authority. A close analysis of the rule establishes that admiralty should be included. Finally, the article details the appropriate standards when applying Rule 4(k)(2) in admiralty cases.
Keywords: Federal rule, Rule 4, Rule 4(k)(2), Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, admiralty, jurisdiction
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