Subject matter jurisdiction defines a court’s power to decide a lawsuit involving a particular subject matter, and to render an enforceable judgment. A court generally has jurisdiction when the particular claim raised in the case is within its constitutional jurisdiction—as provided by the state constitution or the U.S. Constitution—or because jurisdiction has been mandated by the state legislature or the United States Congress.

In Ohio, subject matter jurisdiction refers to a court's authority to hear cases of a specific nature. The Ohio Constitution, along with state statutes, delineates the scope of jurisdiction for different courts within the state. For instance, the Ohio Supreme Court has general jurisdiction over cases of public or great general interest, while the Court of Appeals has jurisdiction to review the decisions of lower courts. Common Pleas Courts have broad jurisdiction, including authority over civil and criminal cases, domestic relations, and probate matters. Municipal and County Courts handle lesser civil and criminal cases. Federal courts, on the other hand, have jurisdiction as defined by the U.S. Constitution and federal law, which typically includes cases involving federal statutes, the Constitution, or disputes between states or diverse parties. Jurisdiction can also be expanded or limited by acts of the Ohio legislature or the United States Congress. It is essential for a court to have subject matter jurisdiction to render a legally binding judgment in a case.