What is the purpose of a long arm statute?

A long arm statute allows a court to exercise jurisdiction over a defendant who is not physically present in the state where the lawsuit is being filed. This means that if a defendant has certain minimum contacts with the state, such as conducting business or committing a tort within that jurisdiction, the court can extend its authority to include that defendant, even if they reside or are based elsewhere. This legal tool ensures that individuals and entities cannot evade legal accountability simply by remaining outside the state.

The long arm statute serves to provide a mechanism for parties to seek redress and hold defendants accountable regardless of geographic barriers. It promotes fairness in the legal process, allowing plaintiffs to pursue claims against defendants who engage in activities that have an impact on residents of the state or cause harm within its borders. This approach is vital for maintaining justice and ensuring that appropriate legal remedies are accessible to those affected by a defendant's actions.