Colorado River Abstention
/ˈkɒlərɑːdoʊ ˈrɪvər əˈstɛnʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) A judicial doctrine where federal courts abstain from exercising jurisdiction in deference to concurrent state court proceedings involving the same parties and issues.
The court invoked Colorado River abstention to defer to the ongoing state water rights litigation.
Forms
- colorado river abstention
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Used to promote judicial efficiency and avoid duplicative litigation; applies only where exceptional circumstances justify federal abstention despite concurrent jurisdiction.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.