Dana Hughes v. Atlassian US, Inc.

Summary

The Central District of California issued an order to show cause concerning the apparent lack of federal subject-matter jurisdiction in Dana Hughes's putative class action against Atlassian US, Inc. The court ordered plaintiff to file a First Amended Complaint establishing a proper jurisdictional basis by August 25, 2025, warning that failure to do so could result in dismissal.

Holdings

1. A federal court has a duty to examine subject matter jurisdiction sua sponte at any time before proceeding to the merits, including in the absence of a challenge by a party.
2. The complaint failed to invoke a proper basis for federal subject matter jurisdiction because it relied on article VI, section 10 of the California Constitution rather than federal-question or diversity jurisdiction.
3. Plaintiff was required to file a First Amended Complaint setting forth a proper basis for federal subject matter jurisdiction by August 25, 2025.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the complaint adequately invoked federal subject matter jurisdiction.
2. Whether the court should require plaintiff to amend the complaint to state a proper jurisdictional basis and warn of dismissal for failure to comply.

Disposition

other