US Appeals Court – Boston, MA

United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit

Judicial Authority and Jurisdiction

The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, headquartered at the John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse in Boston, Massachusetts, serves as the intermediate appellate court for the federal judicial district. Established in 1891, it holds jurisdiction over appeals from the United States District Courts in the districts of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Puerto Rico, and Rhode Island. As one of the thirteen federal appellate courts, it plays a critical role in interpreting federal law and the U.S. Constitution within its jurisdiction. The court reviews final decisions and certain interlocutory orders of district courts, as well as orders of certain federal administrative agencies.

Appellate Process and Functions

Unlike trial courts, the Court of Appeals does not conduct jury trials, hear witness testimony, or accept new evidence. Instead, it reviews the record established in the lower courts to determine if legal errors occurred. Cases are typically heard by panels of three judges selected from the circuit’s active and senior judges. The court’s decisions establish binding legal precedents for all federal courts within the First Circuit. Oral arguments are scheduled periodically, providing attorneys an opportunity to present their legal reasoning directly to the judicial panel. The court handles a wide array of cases, including civil and criminal appeals, administrative reviews, and bankruptcy appeals.

The John Joseph Moakley Courthouse

The court operates primarily out of the John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse, a striking architectural landmark located on Fan Pier in South Boston’s Seaport District. The building, designed by Pei Cobb Freed and Partners, features a distinctive glass wall offering panoramic views of Boston Harbor, symbolizing the transparency of the judicial process. The facility houses not only the Court of Appeals but also the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts and various supporting federal offices. Visitors to the courthouse must adhere to strict security protocols, including screening of persons and bags.

• Circuit Coverage: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island.
• Composition: Active Circuit Judges and Senior Judges.
• Key Function: Reviewing appeals for legal errors and constitutional interpretation.

The First Circuit is known for being the smallest of the federal circuits in terms of the number of judgeships, yet it manages a significant and complex caseload. Access to the courthouse for the general public and media is permitted, though electronic devices are subject to specific regulations. The Clerk’s Office serves as the primary point of contact for filing documents, accessing case records, and obtaining procedural information regarding appellate practice.