Forum Non Conveniens

Term: Forum Non ConveniensDefinition: A legal doctrine that allows a court to dismiss a case if it believes that the case would be more conveniently heard in another jurisdiction.Phonetic Pronunciation: (FOR-um non kahn-veh-NEE-ens)Origin: The term "Forum Non Conveniens" originates from Latin, where "forum" means "court" or "place of jurisdiction," and "non conveniens" translates to "not convenient." This doctrine has roots in Scottish law and was later adopted by the United States and other common law jurisdictions to manage the complexities of multi-jurisdictional litigation.Significance in Asbestos Context: In asbestos litigation, Forum Non Conveniens can be crucial when plaintiffs file lawsuits in jurisdictions perceived as more favorable to their cases, while defendants may seek dismissal to a more convenient or less plaintiff-friendly jurisdiction. This doctrine can significantly impact where asbestos-related cases are tried, potentially affecting outcomes due to differences in legal standards and jury pools.Example Sentence: The defendant in the asbestos exposure case moved to dismiss the lawsuit on the grounds of Forum Non Conveniens, arguing that the case should be heard in the jurisdiction where the exposure occurred.Related Terms: Jurisdiction, Venue, Dismissal, Choice of Law, Multidistrict LitigationNotes: - Forum Non Conveniens is not available in all jurisdictions and its application can vary widely. - Courts often consider factors like the location of witnesses, evidence, and the convenience of the parties when deciding on a Forum Non Conveniens motion. - It is often used in international litigation where a case might be more appropriately heard in a foreign court.