Select your state

Civil litigation

act of state doctrine

The act of state doctrine is a court-made (common law) doctrine that prohibits U.S. courts from judging the validity of the official acts of a foreign country that take place within that foreign country's borders.

In Iowa, as in other U.S. states, the act of state doctrine is recognized as a principle of federal common law rather than state statute. This doctrine dictates that Iowa courts, like all U.S. courts, generally will not question the validity of public acts performed by a recognized foreign sovereign within its own territory. The rationale behind this doctrine is to respect the sovereignty and avoid conflict with other nations. However, the application of the act of state doctrine is subject to certain exceptions and may be overridden by specific federal statutes or international agreements. It is important to note that while the doctrine is applied in federal and state courts, its contours and exceptions are primarily shaped by U.S. Supreme Court precedent and federal policy considerations.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil litigation

act of state doctrine

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Iowa State Code

Iowa State Code

Civil litigation

act of state doctrine

Articles