Erie Railroad Co. v. Tompkins [1938]
304 U.S. 64 (1938) · Supreme Court of the United States · United States
Summary
Foundational Erie doctrine decision.
Facts
A Pennsylvania plaintiff sued a railroad in federal diversity jurisdiction after an accident.
Issue
May a federal court sitting in diversity apply federal general common law?
Held
No. Federal courts apply state substantive law in diversity cases.
Ratio Decidendi
In diversity jurisdiction, federal courts apply state substantive law and federal procedural law.
Reasoning
There is no federal general common law, and prior doctrine encouraged inequitable forum shopping.
Significance
Foundational Erie doctrine decision.
Related Cases
No related cases listed.
Exam Tips
Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.