Jurisdiction is a power introduced for the public good, on account of the necessity of dispensing justice.

Explanation

Jurisdiction exists to serve the public — not to expand government power. When jurisdiction is used against the public interest, it is perverted from its purpose.

Where this applies

• A court extends its jurisdiction beyond what is necessary to serve justice.
• Jurisdictional power is used to expand government control rather than dispense justice.

See also

• 2.1.3 The welfare of the People is the supreme law.
• 8.1.2 A man ought not to be judge in his own cause, because he cannot act as both judge and party.