UNITED STATES COURT OF APPEALS FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIRCUIT Meaning and
Definition
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The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, often abbreviated as the D.C. Circuit, is a federal appellate court located in Washington, D.C. It is one of the thirteen United States Courts of Appeals and has jurisdiction over cases that arise within the District of Columbia.
This court is considered one of the most influential appellate courts in the United States due to its jurisdiction including important federal agencies and constitutional issues. The D.C. Circuit is composed of 11 active judges and is commonly referred to as a "circuit" because it covers a specific geographic region, while serving as a crucial intermediary between trial courts and the Supreme Court.
The court reviews decisions made by federal agencies, such as the Federal Communications Commission or the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as decisions made in the district courts within its jurisdiction. Additionally, the D.C. Circuit has jurisdiction over challenges to federal regulations, actions of the Executive Branch, and cases involving foreign governments.
Decisions made by the D.C. Circuit set important legal precedents, and they can significantly influence national policies and the interpretation of federal laws. Its role as a court of appeals helps ensure that decisions made in the District of Columbia are consistent with federal law and constitutional principles, representing a significant step in the federal judicial system's hierarchy.
