Definition of the word circuit court

The term "circuit court" originated in England during the medieval period, when royal judges traveled on circuits or rounds to hear legal cases in various cities and towns. These itinerant courts were called "circuit courts" because they followed a set route or circuit through the region. The concept of circuit courts was introduced in the United States during the early 19th century as a means of providing greater access to justice in areas with sparse population density. The first circuit courts in the United States were established by Congress in 1801, and they continued to function as traveling courts, holding sessions in multiple districts within a particular geographical area. In the United States, circuit courts are currently organized under the federal judiciary system and are intended to hear cases that are too complex or important for the district courts to handle alone. They also serve as intermediary appellate courts, hearing appeals brought from decisions made by district courts within their circuits, before final appeals are made to the U.S. Supreme Court. Circuit courts are typically composed of several judges who hold regular sessions in various district courthouses within their respective territories.