Pennoyer v. Neff [1878]
95 U.S. 714 (1878) · Supreme Court of the United States · United States
Summary
Historical baseline for personal jurisdiction before International Shoe.
Facts
A default judgment led to a sheriff sale of land after disputed service and jurisdiction.
Issue
Could a state court bind an out-of-state defendant without personal service or attached property?
Held
No. The judgment was invalid for lack of jurisdiction.
Ratio Decidendi
Traditional jurisdiction required presence, consent, domicile, or property control.
Reasoning
The Court emphasized territorial limits on state judicial authority.
Significance
Historical baseline for personal jurisdiction before International Shoe.
Related Cases
No related cases listed.
Exam Tips
Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.