A government’s power to enforce laws within a specific territory is known as?

Jurisdiction refers specifically to a governmental entity's authority to make legal decisions and judgments within a certain geographic area or over specific subjects. It defines the scope within which laws can be enforced and by whom, essentially outlining the limits and boundaries of legal power. Understanding jurisdiction is crucial for law enforcement and legal proceedings, as it determines which agency or court has the right to act in a given situation. For instance, a police department may have jurisdiction within the city limits, while federal agencies have jurisdiction that extends across state lines. This concept is foundational in ensuring that legal authority is exercised correctly and within designated limits.