United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC)

The United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) is a specialized federal court that hears appeals on certain types of cases, primarily involving patent law, international trade, and federal claims. Established in 1982, it aims to promote consistency in how laws are interpreted across the country. The court's decisions can set important legal standards, particularly in intellectual property disputes. Cases typically come to the CAFC after being decided in lower courts or federal agencies, and its rulings can significantly impact innovation and industry practices in the U.S.