The Fourth Circuit is one of the thirteen federal appellate courts in the United States. It covers the states of Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The court hears appeals from federal district courts within its jurisdiction, reviewing cases that involve federal law and constitutional issues. Established in 1891, the Fourth Circuit is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. It consists of a panel of judges who evaluate cases based on written briefs and oral arguments. Decisions made by the Fourth Circuit can be appealed to the Supreme Court of the United States if they involve significant legal questions.