Why is Delaware significant here?

A large proportion of US public companies are incorporated in Delaware, so corporate and bankruptcy disputes concentrate in its federal district court and reach this circuit on appeal.

Third Circuit Court of Appeals - Corporate, Pharma & Appeals

United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit

The Third Circuit covers Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the Virgin Islands. Because Delaware is the state of incorporation for a large share of US public companies and New Jersey hosts much of the pharmaceutical industry, its docket is unusually weighted toward corporate, bankruptcy and life sciences matters.

What it does

Hears appeals from the district courts within the circuit
Reviews federal agency decisions within its jurisdiction
Decides significant corporate and bankruptcy appeals

Matters it hears

Corporate and shareholder appeals
Bankruptcy and restructuring appeals
Pharmaceutical and patent-related appeals
Civil and criminal appeals generally

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 Delaware significant here?: A large proportion of US public companies are incorporated in Delaware, so corporate and bankruptcy disputes concentrate in its federal district court and reach this circuit on appeal.

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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 Third Circuit. Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.