WHAT IS A FEDERAL QUESTION?

A federal question is a legal issue that involves the interpretation of the U.S. Constitution, federal law, or treaties. Federal questions can arise in a variety of legal contexts, including civil litigation and criminal law cases.

In civil litigation cases, a federal question arises when a plaintiff’s claim is based on federal law or when a federal statute provides the basis for the claim1. In criminal law cases, a federal question arises when a defendant’s conduct violates a federal criminal statute2.

As a paralegal, it’s important to understand when a federal question applies because it can affect how you approach your work and how you assist attorneys in preparing their cases. If you’re working on a case that involves a federal question, you may need to conduct research on federal law and regulations in addition to state law3.