Which concept allows both state and federal courts to have authority over the same case?

The concept that allows both state and federal courts to have authority over the same case is known as concurrent jurisdiction. This occurs when two different court systems, such as state and federal courts, have the power to hear particular cases, which is often the case with matters that involve both state laws and federal laws or issues that cross state lines.

Concurrent jurisdiction enables plaintiffs to choose whether to bring a case in state court or federal court, depending on various factors such as the nature of the legal issues involved, potential advantages, or specific procedural differences. It is an essential aspect of the legal framework in the United States, as it helps to ensure that citizens have access to multiple layers of legal recourse for their disputes. This approach reflects the dual court system that exists in the country, allowing for greater flexibility and comprehensiveness in the administration of justice.

The other concepts do not have this shared authority: exclusive jurisdiction refers to cases that can only be tried in one court system, general jurisdiction indicates a court's ability to hear a wide range of cases or types of disputes, and specific jurisdiction pertains to a court's authority over a particular case based upon the connection between the legal action and the state in which the court is located.