This analysis describes what Stripe's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This clause establishes the legal framework and forum for dispute resolution, specifying that California law applies to interpretation of the agreement and that non-arbitrable disputes must be litigated in a specific geographic jurisdiction rather than in courts elsewhere.
Interpretive note: The enforceability of the California exclusive jurisdiction clause against non-US merchants depends on the applicable conflict of laws rules in the merchant's home jurisdiction, and EU and UK merchants in particular may have mandatory legal protections that override this provision.
Users must pursue non-arbitrable claims in San Francisco County courts rather than courts in their home jurisdiction or state, and California law governs the interpretation and enforceability of the agreement terms. The provision establishes consent to personal jurisdiction as a condition of using the service.
How other platforms handle this
These Terms shall be governed by the laws of the State of California, excluding its conflicts of law rules, and the federal laws of the United States. Any dispute arising from or relating to the subject matter of these Terms shall be finally settled by arbitration in San Francisco County, California...
These Terms of Service and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them or their subject matter or formation (including non-contractual disputes or claims) shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to any choice o...
These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law provisions. Any disputes not subject to arbitration will be resolved in the state or federal courts located in Hennepin County, Minnesota.
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"These General Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California and applicable federal laws, without giving effect to any choice or conflict of law provisions. Any disputes not subject to arbitration will be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts located in San Francisco County, California, and you consent to personal jurisdiction in those courts.— Excerpt from Stripe's Stripe Terms of Service
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This clause establishes the legal framework and forum for dispute resolution, specifying that California law applies to interpretation of the agreement and that non-arbitrable disputes must be litigated in a specific geographic jurisdiction rather than in courts elsewhere.
Users must pursue non-arbitrable claims in San Francisco County courts rather than courts in their home jurisdiction or state, and California law governs the interpretation and enforceability of the agreement terms. The provision establishes consent to personal jurisdiction as a condition of using the service.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 204 platforms. See the full comparison.
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