Legal Definitions - significant-relationship theory

Significant-relationship theory is a concept in conflict of laws. It refers to the rule that the law of the jurisdiction with the most significant relationship to the transaction or event applies. This theory is also known as center-of-gravity doctrine or grouping-of-contacts theory.

For example, if a person from New York gets into a car accident while driving in California, the significant-relationship theory would determine which state's laws apply to the case. The theory would consider factors such as where the accident occurred, where the parties involved reside, and where the car is registered to determine which state has the most significant relationship to the case.

This theory helps to ensure that the laws applied to a case are fair and just, and that they reflect the jurisdiction that has the most significant connection to the case.