The body of theory on the question of how new international courts come into being suggests that creation of new courts is preceded by the confluence of a dizzying array of factors. These include states’ self-interest; democracies’ desire to spread ideals of democracy and the rule of law; the desire of states transitioning out of illiberal regimes to bind their own hands lest they lapse back; a desire to enhance the credibility of international commitments, as well as many others. Chapter 1 examines that body of theory, as well as case studies of improbable courts such as the International Criminal Court, the WTO Dispute Settlement System, and the Iran-US Claims Tribunal. That examination lays the groundwork for the argument that the time is ripe for an International Court of Civil Justice.