Overview. A long-arm statute is a statute that allows for a court to obtain personal jurisdiction over an out-of-state defendant on the basis of certain acts committed by an out-of-state defendant, provided that the defendant has a sufficient connection with the state.

Do all states have long arm statutes?

Every state has a law called a long-arm statute which details under what circumstances a court in that state may assert jurisdiction over an out-of-state defendant.

What is an example of long-arm statute?

A statute allowing a state to exercise personal jurisdiction over a non-resident defendant who has certain contacts with the state. For example, New York's long-arm statute generally gives its courts the power to exercise personal jurisdiction over non-New York residents who: Transact business within New York.