What is the defining characteristic of original jurisdiction?

The defining characteristic of original jurisdiction is that only specific courts may hear the matter in question. Original jurisdiction refers to the authority of a court to hear a case for the first time, as opposed to appellate jurisdiction, where a higher court reviews the decision of a lower court. Courts with original jurisdiction are established by law to handle particular types of cases, such as certain federal cases, and this exclusivity means that not just any court can take up the case.

The other options do not accurately define original jurisdiction: the first option implies a broad access that is not characteristic of original jurisdiction; the third option addresses appellate processes rather than first-instance hearings; and the fourth option incorrectly limits the scope of original jurisdiction to only civil cases when it may apply to criminal cases as well.