History of the Federal Courts

This pioneering text presents, in one single volume, the history of the federal courts since their establishment in 1789 and the changes that have occurred in the 200 years since. The author examines the historical context from which the federal court system grew and explores the expansion of the court system in response to procedural, conceptual, and historical influences. The evolution of the different types of federal courts through time is of particular focus, along with the growth of the jurisdiction of the federal courts and the changes to the procedure before the Supreme Court over time.

To understand judicial history, it is important to appreciate the nuances of procedure and legal terminology at a particular time. For this reason, the author adheres to the use of the terms of law and procedure understood during the period under discussion. For example, a term such as 'circuit court' is used in its context as a trial court prior to 1911 and again in the context of today's "Circuit Court of Appeals."

Specific chapters include:


· The Prelude to the Establishment


· Federal Courts Under the Articles of Confederation


· The Establishment of the Federal Courts


· The Organization of the Circuits


· Judicial Legislation


· Growth of Federal Jurisdiction


· Growth of Federal Criminal Jurisdiction


· Civil Procedure in the Federal Courts


· Bankruptcy in American Law


· Criminal Procedure in the Federal Courts


· Development of the Appellate Review


· Procedure Before the United States Supreme Court


· Federal Judges


· Courts in the District of Columbia