A Circuit Court is a type of trial court found in many common law jurisdictions, including the United States and some other countries. Circuit Courts typically have jurisdiction over a specific geographic area known as a “circuit.” These courts handle a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, family, and probate matters, depending on the jurisdiction’s laws and court structure. In some jurisdictions, Circuit Courts are the highest trial courts, while in others, they may be intermediate courts of appeal. The name “circuit” originates from historical practices where judges would travel on a regular circuit to hold court sessions in various locations within their jurisdiction. Today, Circuit Courts may have multiple judges and permanent court facilities, serving as important venues for the administration of justice within their respective jurisdictions.
n. a movable court in which the judge holds court sessions at several different locations for pre-specified periods of time. In effect, the judge “rides the circuit” from town to town and takes the “court” with him/her. Formerly, the Federal District Courts of Appeal were called the Circuit Courts of Appeal.
The Circuit Court is a court of general jurisdiction that hears both civil and criminal cases. It has the authority to hear cases involving a wide range of legal issues and has the power to issue judgements and enforce its decisions. The Circuit Court is an important part of the judicial system and plays a crucial role in resolving disputes and upholding the rule of law.
The name is used for the principal trial court in many states. In the federal system, appellate courts are organised into thirteen circuits. Eleven of these cover different geographical areas of the country; for example, the United States Court of Appeal for the Ninth Circuit covers Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. The remaining circuits are the District of Columbia Circuit and the Federal Circuit, which hears patent, customs and other specialised cases based on subject matter. The term derives from an age before mechanised transit, when judges and lawyers rode “the circuit” of their territory to hold court in various places.
A circuit court is a trial court that has jurisdiction over a specific geographic area, usually encompassing multiple counties or districts. It handles both civil and criminal cases.
Unlike lower courts, such as district or municipal courts, circuit courts have the authority to hear cases involving larger sums of money, more serious criminal offences, and more complex legal issues. They also have the power to review decisions made by lower courts.
In most jurisdictions, judges in circuit courts are elected by the public. However, in some states, they may be appointed by the governor or a judicial nominating commission.
Circuit Courts handle a wide range of cases, including civil disputes such as personal injury claims, contract disputes, and family law matters like divorce and child custody. They also handle criminal cases, including felonies and serious misdemeanours.
Yes, if you are dissatisfied with the outcome of your case in a circuit court, you have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court. The appellate court will review the case for errors in the application of the law or other legal issues.
The time it takes to resolve a case in a circuit court can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the court’s caseload, and other factors. Some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others can take years.
Jurors for Circuit Court trials are typically selected from a pool of eligible citizens within the court’s jurisdiction. The selection process involves a random drawing and a screening process to ensure impartiality.
Yes, if you believe that you cannot receive a fair trial in the jurisdiction where the Circuit Court is located, you can request a change of venue. This may be granted if there is evidence of significant prejudice or bias in the community.
In most cases, Circuit Court records are public records and can be accessed by the public. However, certain sensitive or confidential information may be redacted or sealed to protect privacy or national security interests.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 30th April 2024.
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