Problem: When is a Web Page Creator Subject to a State's Jurisdiction? Creating and maintaining a Web page that is accessible from anywhere in the world poses new jurisdictional issues. In this 1999 article, Christopher Wolf, an attorney at a Washington D.C. law firm, explains the evolving law on jurisdiction on the Internet. The question is whether a court has personal jurisdiction of an individual just because the individual posts a Website. Mr. Wolf summarizes the law relating to that issue.
Part: Look at Mr. Wolf's article entitled "Internet Jurisdiction." Read all sections of the article including the conclusion. Answer the following questions:
Question 1. Why is personal jurisdiction an issue for those who post Websites?
Question 2. What are some reasons that a website owner might be concerned with whether a court is able to obtain 'personal jurisdiction' over them?
Question 3. What is normally required for a court to have personal jurisdiction?
Question 4. When is a Court required to use long-arm jurisdiction?
Question 5. Why is long arm jurisdiction an issue for those who create or post Web pages?
Question 6. According to the Wolf article, the courts have imposed an "interactive-passive" test of jurisdiction. Explain that distinction.
Question 7. According to the Wolf article, is advertising on the Web alone enough to confer personal jurisdiction?