Circuit Court

/ˈsɜːrkɪt kɔːrt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A court of law that holds sessions at various intervals within a judicial district, often having appellate or original jurisdiction over certain cases.
    The defendant appealed the decision to the federal circuit court.
  2. (n.) In the U.S. federal system, a court of appeals that reviews decisions from district courts within its circuit.
    The Ninth Circuit Court reviewed the lower court's ruling on immigration law.

Forms

  • circuit courts

Commentary

Circuit courts commonly function as intermediate appellate courts but may also serve as trial courts depending on jurisdiction; the term's scope varies by legal system and territory.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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