A complaint must contain language asserting that the court in which it was filed is appropriate in terms of jurisdiction and venue. Jurisdiction refers to the court’s authority to preside over the case. A case brought in federal court, for example, must contain a statement explaining why there is federal jurisdiction. Venue refers to the appropriate location of the court. It is typically the place where the defendant resides or where the injury occurred.
Here’s what the caption and statement of jurisdiction/venue might look like:
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Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Suffolk
Sally Sue, plaintiff
v.
John Doe, Jane Doe, ABC Company, Inc., defendants.
Index No.: 12-CV-345
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Jurisdiction and Venue
Sally Sue, Plaintiff, is a resident of the state of New York, County of Suffolk.
Upon information and belief, John Doe, Defendant is a resident of the state of New York, County of Suffolk.
Upon further information and belief, Jane Doe, Defendant is a resident of the state of New York, County of Suffolk.
ABC Company is incorporated and located in the state of New York, County of Suffolk.
Upon further information and belief, the defendants regularly visit and are engaged in business in Suffolk County, New York.
This action arises out of a car accident which took place on January 1, 2012 on the exit ramp of I-95 and Fictitious Road. Both are public roads located in Suffolk County, New York.