The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit is one of the thirteen appellate courts in the United States federal court system. It hears appeals from federal district courts in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Puerto Rico. The court is located in Boston, Massachusetts and is responsible for reviewing decisions made by lower courts to ensure the law was applied correctly. Established in 1891, the First Circuit plays a crucial role in interpreting federal law and the U.S. Constitution. It consists of a panel of judges who review cases, and their decisions can set important legal precedents for the region. The court also addresses a variety of issues, including civil rights, immigration, and criminal law.