Which statement correctly describes the Supreme Court's jurisdiction?

• A. General original jurisdiction of all cases in law and equity without monetary limitation
• B. Only appellate jurisdiction
• C. No authority over matrimonial actions
• D. Hears felonies only in outside New York

Answer: (A)

In New York, the Supreme Court is the court of general original jurisdiction in civil matters, meaning it can hear a wide range of cases from the start, in both law and equity, without any monetary cap. This broad power is what allows it to hear virtually any civil action, regardless of the amount in controversy, unless another specific court is empowered to hear a particular type of case (for example, smaller claims in other courts). That broad, unrestricted original jurisdiction is the defining feature here.

Other statements don’t fit because they misstate the court’s role. The Supreme Court isn’t limited to appellate work; appellate review is handled by the Appellate Division and Court of Appeals. It does have authority over matrimonial actions, such as divorce, which are typically filed there. And it doesn’t restrict felonies to outside New York—criminal cases, including felonies, are within its jurisdiction throughout the state.