Why is this circuit important for regulated businesses?

Many federal statutes channel challenges to agency rules into this court, so it decides a disproportionate share of administrative law nationally - even for parties with no connection to Washington.

Is it the same as the Federal Circuit?

No. They are separate courts. The D.C. Circuit handles administrative and agency review; the Federal Circuit has nationwide subject-matter jurisdiction over patents and certain claims against the government.

D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals - Administrative & Agency Review

United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit

The D.C. Circuit is geographically the smallest circuit and substantively one of the most consequential, because numerous federal statutes vest exclusive or preferred jurisdiction over agency review here. Challenges to rules from agencies such as the EPA, FERC, FCC and SEC frequently proceed in this court regardless of where the challenger is located.

What it does

Reviews federal agency rulemaking and adjudication
Hears appeals from the District Court for the District of Columbia
Decides separation of powers and federal structure questions

Matters it hears

Challenges to federal agency rules
Energy, environmental and communications regulation
Securities and financial regulation
Government contracts and federal employment

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Supreme Court of the United States.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this circuit important for regulated businesses?: Many federal statutes channel challenges to agency rules into this court, so it decides a disproportionate share of administrative law nationally - even for parties with no connection to Washington.
Is it the same as the Federal Circuit?: No. They are separate courts. The D.C. Circuit handles administrative and agency review; the Federal Circuit has nationwide subject-matter jurisdiction over patents and certain claims against the government.

Need a lawyer for a matter before the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit?

We are not affiliated with this court. Tell us about your matter and we will help you find relevant representation.

General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.