Specialized Federal Courts
In addition to district courts and courts of appeals, Congress has created several specialized courts with jurisdiction over specific types of cases. These courts handle matters requiring technical expertise or special procedures.
Bankruptcy Courts
Each of the 94 federal judicial districts has a bankruptcy court as a unit of the district court. Bankruptcy judges are appointed by the courts of appeals for 14-year terms.
Types of Bankruptcy
- Chapter 7: Liquidation
- Chapter 11: Business reorganization
- Chapter 13: Individual debt adjustment
- Chapter 12: Family farmer/fisherman
Caseload
Bankruptcy courts handle hundreds of thousands of cases annually, making them among the busiest federal courts.
U.S. Tax Court
An independent court where taxpayers can dispute tax deficiencies determined by the IRS before paying the disputed amount. Unlike other courts, you can challenge the IRS here without paying first.
Composition
19 presidentially appointed judges serving 15-year terms. Senior judges and special trial judges assist with the caseload.
Location
Based in Washington, D.C., but judges travel to cities nationwide to conduct trials closer to taxpayers.
U.S. Court of Federal Claims
Hears monetary claims against the United States government. If you believe the federal government owes you money, this is often where you file suit.
Types of Cases
- Government contract disputes
- Tax refund suits
- Constitutional takings claims
- Civilian and military pay disputes
- Patent and copyright claims against the U.S.
- Vaccine injury compensation
U.S. Court of International Trade
Has exclusive jurisdiction over civil actions arising from customs and international trade laws. Based in New York City but can hear cases anywhere.
Jurisdiction Includes
- Customs duties and import restrictions
- Antidumping and countervailing duty determinations
- Trade adjustment assistance eligibility
- Customs broker licensing
Military Courts
The military justice system operates separately under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Appeals from courts-martial can eventually reach the civilian federal courts.
Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
The highest military appellate court, composed of five civilian judges appointed by the President for 15-year terms. Reviews decisions from the service branch courts of criminal appeals.
Other Specialized Courts
Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims
Reviews decisions of the Board of Veterans' Appeals regarding veterans' benefits.
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court
A secret court that reviews applications for surveillance warrants under FISA. Operates with classified proceedings.
Alien Terrorist Removal Court
Reviews applications to deport suspected alien terrorists using classified evidence.
Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation
Transfers and consolidates civil cases pending in different districts for coordinated pretrial proceedings.