Understanding the Role and Function of the Court of Appeals in the US Federal System

Court of Appeals (also “Circuit” courts)

court that hears and reviews appeals from legal cases that have already been heard in a trial-level or other lower court

In the United States, the Court of Appeals, also known as Circuit courts, is the intermediary level of the federal court system between the district courts and the Supreme Court. The country is divided into 13 circuit courts, serving different regions of the country. These courts hear appeals from district courts, as well as appeals from federal administrative agencies.

The Court of Appeals is primarily responsible for reviewing the decisions of district courts, which are the trial courts of the federal system. The Court of Appeals does not conduct trials or hear witnesses; it only decides whether the district court acted properly when deciding a case.

In addition to hearing appeals, the Court of Appeals also has the authority to issue writs of mandamus, which are orders that require a lower court or government official to take action. The Court of Appeals also has the power to review administrative laws or regulations.

The Court of Appeals is made up of panels of three judges who review each case and make decisions. In some cases, the full court may hear a case. Decisions made by the Court of Appeals can be appealed to the Supreme Court, but the Supreme Court is not required to hear the case.

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