Connecticut
How Atlantic Marine Construction Co., Inc. v. U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas applies in Connecticut: state-specific rules, key cases, and bar exam notes for Civil Procedure.
Connecticut follows the general principle that forum selection clauses are enforceable, aligning with the principles established in Atlantic Marine. The state emphasizes freedom of contract but requires that such clauses be reasonable and not contrary to public policy.
In Connecticut, a motion to enforce a forum selection clause will be granted unless the party opposing the clause shows that enforcement would be unjust or unreasonable.
The court upheld a forum selection clause, emphasizing the importance of upholding the parties' contractual agreements unless a clear imbalance exists.
The enforcement of the forum selection clause was denied due to lack of bargaining power of one party, demonstrating an exception to general enforceability.
The court ruled that public policy does not allow enforcement of a forum selection clause in a contract arising from a statute designed to protect consumers.
Connecticut's approach mirrors the federal standard in Atlantic Marine, favoring the enforcement of forum selection clauses. However, Connecticut may place a stronger emphasis on issues of public policy and consumer protection when considering the fairness of such clauses.
The enforceability of forum selection clauses is a relevant topic in Connecticut's Civil Procedure section of the bar exam, particularly regarding its public policy limitations.