To obtain Long-Arm Jurisdiction in a Matrimonial Action, the plaintiff must be a resident, and which additional condition may apply?

• A. All of the above
• B. NY was matrimonial domicile
• C. ∆ abandoned π in NY
• D. ∆'s monetary obligation under an NY agreement

Answer: (A)

Long-arm jurisdiction in a matrimonial action rests on the New York long-arm statute (CPLR 302): the plaintiff must be a New York resident, and the defendant must have a qualifying connection to New York that relates to the marriage. Any of several contacts can satisfy that nexus. If New York was the matrimonial domicile, the court has jurisdiction because the marriage relationship was centered there. If the defendant abandoned the plaintiff in New York, that conduct shows purposeful contact with New York tied to the action. If the defendant has a monetary obligation under a New York agreement—such as a separation or property settlement governed by an agreement executed in or enforceable in New York—that obligation provides the necessary nexus. Because each of these scenarios can establish the required connection for long-arm jurisdiction in a matrimonial action, all of the listed conditions may apply.