Federal Civil Procedure (Part 7 of 7): Special Topics and Alternative Dispute Resolution

This conversation provides a comprehensive overview of key legal doctrines and principles that govern the interaction between federal and state law, focusing on the Erie Doctrine, the Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA), and the Rooker-Feldman Doctrine. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts for law students and practitioners, highlighting the complexities of jurisdiction, choice of law, and ethical considerations in class action settlements.

Takeaways

Understanding the Erie Doctrine is crucial for navigating federal and state law interactions.

The twin aims of Erie are to prevent forum shopping and ensure equitable law administration.

CAFA significantly expands federal jurisdiction over class actions, altering traditional diversity requirements.

Mass actions are distinct from class actions and have unique jurisdictional rules under CAFA.

Federal courts must apply the choice of law rules of the state in which they sit, not the substantive law.

The Rooker-Feldman Doctrine prevents federal courts from reviewing state court decisions directly.

CAFA introduced new notice requirements for settlements to protect absent class members.

Ethical considerations in class action settlements have been strengthened under CAFA.

The burden of proof for federal jurisdiction remains with the defendant even after CAFA's changes.

Understanding these doctrines is essential for law students to think like litigators.

Erie Doctrine, Class Action Fairness Act, federalism, civil procedure, choice of law, legal strategy, federal jurisdiction, mass actions, legal ethics, Rooker-Feldman