What is the term for a court's authority to hear a case?

The term "jurisdiction" refers to a court's authority to hear and decide a case. This encompasses not only the geographic area over which the court has authority but also the types of cases the court can adjudicate. For example, a court may have jurisdiction over civil cases, criminal cases, or certain subject matters like family law or probate law. Understanding jurisdiction is critical because if a case is brought before a court that does not possess the appropriate jurisdictional authority, the court will not have the power to make a ruling on that case, potentially leading to dismissal or transfer to the proper court.

The other terms listed have distinct meanings but do not fit the definition of court authority. "Venue" relates to the specific location where a case should be tried, which is different from jurisdiction, while "legislation" refers to laws enacted by a legislative body. "Adjudication" is the legal process of resolving a dispute or deciding a case, but it does not pertain specifically to the authority of a court to hear a case. Hence, jurisdiction is the most accurate and relevant term in this context.