Legal Definitions - CAFC

The CAFC, which stands for the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, is a unique federal appellate court within the American judicial system. Unlike other federal circuit courts of appeals that hear cases from specific geographic regions, the CAFC's jurisdiction is defined by the type of legal issue involved, rather than by location. It hears appeals from various specialized federal courts and administrative agencies across the entire United States, focusing on particular areas of law such as patent law, international trade, government contracts, and federal personnel matters. Its role is to ensure uniformity and consistency in these specialized legal fields.

Here are some examples of situations where the CAFC would be involved:

• Example 1: Patent Infringement Dispute

  A small technology startup sues a large corporation in a federal district court, alleging that the corporation copied their patented software. The district court rules that the startup's patent is invalid, meaning the corporation did not infringe on a valid patent. If the startup wishes to challenge this ruling, they would appeal the district court's decision directly to the CAFC.

  Explanation: This illustrates the CAFC's exclusive jurisdiction over all appeals involving patent law. Regardless of which federal district court initially heard the case, any appeal concerning patent validity or infringement must go to the CAFC.

• Example 2: Government Contract Dispute

  A company that manufactures specialized equipment for military aircraft enters into a contract with the Department of Defense. A dispute arises over the quality of the materials used and the final payment, leading the company to sue the government in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. After the Court of Federal Claims issues a decision that is unfavorable to the company, the company decides to appeal.

  Explanation: The CAFC has appellate jurisdiction over decisions from the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, which handles monetary claims against the U.S. government, including those related to government contracts. Therefore, the company's appeal would be heard by the CAFC.

• Example 3: Federal Employee Grievance

  A long-time federal employee believes they were unfairly demoted by their agency and that proper procedures were not followed. After pursuing their case through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), an independent agency that protects federal merit system principles, the employee receives an unfavorable final decision. They wish to challenge this decision in court.

  Explanation: The CAFC hears appeals from decisions made by the Merit Systems Protection Board. This demonstrates the CAFC's role in reviewing cases involving federal personnel matters and ensuring that federal agencies adhere to proper legal standards when dealing with their employees.