Why are different laws applied to different jurisdictions?

Answer 1

you have it backwards...different jurisdictions have different laws...

Answer 2

One state cannot impose its laws (generally) on a different state. That's part of state sovereignty. A similar practice applies for county ordinances, city/municipal ordinances etc.

So, within each state jurisdiction, those state laws would apply, plus applicable federal laws. But in a different state, the other state's laws would apply.

If you're asking why each state actually enacts different laws, it's because each state legislature has final say (subject to the US constitution and their own state constitution) over what laws are enacted. And politicians disagree over what's best.

There is a movement to standardize some laws. Legal think-tanks come up with proposed Model or Uniform laws, the most famous example being the Uniform Commercial Code or UCC. They they sell the rights (copyright license) to enact that law to the states. The states get a well-written law, without having to put the effort into drafting and editing it themselves. And as a side-effect, the laws in the various states are more consistent.

But in the end, it's up to each state what state laws they enact.

Answer 3

Not only do the laws vary from state to state, the application can vary within any state because local police and prosecutors have significant discretion in such matters. I live in Maryland. There are counties here where prosecutors have never sought the death penalty, others where the death penalty is sought in virtually every available case. Policy discretion of the local prosecutor is the difference.

Answer 4

The parents in 16 Maple Street allow the kids to watch reruns of Bay Watch.

The parents in 18 Maple Street don't.

It's called house rules.

Answer 5

Different self-interests.

Answer 6

beacause its a different group of people with different views

Answer 7

to many lawyers