Alcoa Steamship Co. v. M/V Nordic Regent: Narrowing the Scope of Inquiry in Forum Non Conveniens

Increases in the amount and complexity of international trade and changes in jurisdictional rules over the last thirty years have often resulted in American courts serving as forums for suits involving non-residents. Very often these suits are the result of transactions that have occurred abroad and may be governed by foreign law as well. Obvious difficulties confront a party compelled to defend in a foreign court. Problems such as unfamiliarity with the language or legal process, unavailability of witnesses, or expenses incurred in bringing evidence from another country have led foreign defendants to seek dismissal of suits on the grounds of forum non conveniens