Civil Procedure Multistate Bar Practice Exam

What should a federal court do if there is a conflict between federal law and state law?

1. Always apply state law regardless of validity

2. Apply federal law if valid

3. Seek guidance from state courts

4. Dismiss the case entirely

The correct answer is: Apply federal law if valid

In cases where there is a conflict between federal law and state law, a federal court should apply federal law, assuming it is valid. This principle is rooted in the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution, which establishes that federal law takes precedence over state law. When courts face conflicts between laws, the validity of the federal law is key. If the federal law is determined to be constitutional and enacted within the bounds of congressional authority, it supersedes any conflicting state legislation. This precedence ensures a uniform application of federal laws across all states, which is essential for maintaining national standards and counteracting potential discord that could arise from varying state laws. In situations where federal and state laws might both be valid but serve different interests, the courts would still favor the application of federal law. The process does not involve dismissal of the case or seeking guidance from state courts, as those would impede the federal court's obligation to uphold federal statutes. Therefore, the appropriate approach is to apply federal law when faced with a conflict with state law, ensuring that judicial outcomes adhere to national standards and legislative intent.