United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit is a key federal appellate court based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Established on June 16, 1891, the court serves as the intermediate appellate level between the federal district courts and the U.S. Supreme Court for several Southern states. It operates out of the John Minor Wisdom U.S. Courthouse, ensuring the consistent application of federal law across its jurisdiction.
Key Facts
- Established: June 16, 1891.
- Headquarters: John Minor Wisdom U.S. Court of Appeals Building, New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Current Chief Judge: Jennifer Walker Elrod.
- Circuit Justice: Samuel Alito.
- Judicial Strength: 17 judges.
- Jurisdiction: Appeals from federal districts in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Jurisdictional Reach
The Fifth Circuit holds appellate jurisdiction over nine federal district courts. These include the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of Louisiana; the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi; and the Eastern, Northern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas.
Historical Evolution
The court's boundaries and responsibilities have shifted significantly over the last century. On June 25, 1948, the court's jurisdiction was expanded to include the Panama Canal Zone, granting it oversight of the United States District Court for the Canal Zone.
A major structural change occurred on October 1, 1981, under Public Law 96–452. To manage the caseload, the Fifth Circuit was split, and the states of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida were moved to the newly created Eleventh Circuit.
The "Fifth Circuit Four" and Civil Rights
During the late 1950s, the court became a focal point for the American civil rights movement. Four judges—Elbert Parr Tuttle, John Minor Wisdom, John R. Brown, and Richard T. Rives—became known as the "Fifth Circuit Four". Their landmark decisions were instrumental in advancing the civil rights of African Americans, often putting them at odds with colleagues like Judge Benjamin F. Cameron.
Because of its pivotal role in these societal shifts, the court earned the nickname the "Supreme Court of Dixie" during this era.
Current Court Composition
As of March 16, 2026, the court is led by Chief Judge Jennifer Walker Elrod. The bench consists of active circuit judges and senior judges. Senior status refers to a form of semi-retirement for federal judges who continue to hear a reduced caseload.
| Role | Name | Duty Station | Appointed By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Judge | Jennifer Walker Elrod | Houston, TX | G.W. Bush |
| Circuit Justice | Samuel Alito | N/A | N/A |
| Active Judges | 17 Total | Various (TX, LA, MS) | Various Presidents |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states are under the jurisdiction of the Fifth Circuit?
The Fifth Circuit currently handles appeals from federal districts within Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Who are the "Fifth Circuit Four"?
They were a group of four judges—Elbert Parr Tuttle, John Minor Wisdom, John R. Brown, and Richard T. Rives—celebrated for their crucial decisions advancing African American civil rights in the mid-20th century.
What happened to the Fifth Circuit in 1981?
In 1981, the court was split to reduce its size and workload, resulting in the transfer of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida to the newly established Eleventh Circuit.
Where is the Fifth Circuit's primary building located?
The court is headquartered at the John Minor Wisdom U.S. Court of Appeals Building in New Orleans, Louisiana.
What is the role of a Senior Judge?
A Senior Judge is a judge who has reached a certain age and service requirement and has elected to take senior status, allowing them to continue serving the court with a reduced workload.