The Creation of the Courts of Appeal in 1891

The Birth of the Courts of Appeal

The year 1891 marked a significant turning point in the U.S. judicial system with the establishment of the Courts of Appeal. These courts were created to address a growing backlog of cases that the Supreme Court faced, which was struggling to manage its increasing workload. The Judiciary Act of 1891, also known as the Evarts Act, was introduced to provide a more efficient judicial process while alleviating the pressure on the Supreme Court.

Why the Courts of Appeal Were Established

Before the establishment of the Courts of Appeal, many cases that could have been resolved at a lower level were overwhelming the Supreme Court. The new system allowed for a tiered approach to justice, where appellate cases would be heard first by the Courts of Appeal before reaching the Supreme Court, if necessary. This structure was designed to control the volume of cases reaching the nation's highest court, ensuring that only the most significant cases would demand the Supreme Court's attention.

The Structure and Function of the Courts of Appeal

The Courts of Appeal were initially organized into nine circuits, each serving a different geographical area in the United States. Each court was composed of three judges, who would collaboratively review cases appealed from lower federal courts. This modified structure helped streamline the appeals process and provided litigants with a more efficient route to obtain justice.

The Legacy of the 1891 Judiciary Act

The Judiciary Act of 1891 not only created the Courts of Appeal but also set a precedent for the future structure of the U.S. court system. The existence of these appellate courts contributed to a more organized judicial framework and influenced how judicial reviews and appeals are handled today.

Continued Importance of the Courts of Appeal

Today, the Courts of Appeal continue to play a crucial role in the U.S. judiciary. They serve as the primary review body for federal cases, ensuring that legal interpretations are consistent and just. The establishment of the Courts of Appeal has protected the integrity of the judicial system, upholding the rule of law by providing a necessary check and balance as cases progress through the legal system.

The Role of Appellate Judges

Judges in the Courts of Appeal are selected for their legal expertise and ability to interpret the law impartially. Their decisions significantly impact legal precedents and interpretations that shape U.S. law. Understanding how these appellate judges operate offers insight into the complexities of the American legal system.

Fun Fact

The Courts of Appeal and Their Impact

The creation of the Courts of Appeal alleviated so much pressure from the Supreme Court that it enabled the justices to focus more on landmark cases that would define civil rights, federal powers, and fundamental liberties.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the U.S. Courts of Appeal

To dive deeper into the history and significance of the Courts of Appeal, consider reading The Federal Courts: A Very Short Introduction by Linda Greenhouse, which details the evolution of the U.S. judicial system.