The federal court where judges greet lawyers after every argument

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In most high-stakes legal arenas, the atmosphere is one of rigid formality. However, the Fourth Circuit stands out for its unique culture of collegiality. By tradition, these judges step down from the bench to personally welcome the attorneys following oral arguments, blending judicial authority with a distinct sense of professional courtesy.

Based in Richmond, Virginia, at the Lewis F. Powell Jr. United States Courthouse, the Fourth Circuit is the fourth-largest of the 13 federal courts of appeals. It holds appellate jurisdiction over district courts spanning Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia. Unlike trial courts, these judges do not hear new evidence or witness testimony; instead, they review lower court proceedings to ensure laws were applied correctly and procedures remained fair.

The internal mechanics of the court are governed by specific seniority and age rules. While the Supreme Court has a specifically nominated Chief Justice, the Fourth Circuit's chief judge position rotates among its 15 authorized judgeships. To qualify, a judge must have served at least one year, be under 65, and not have previously held the role. The vacancy is filled by the most senior qualified judge—determined first by commission date and then by age—for a seven-year term or until they reach age 70.

The court's influence is significant because most of its decisions are final and binding on lower courts within its geographic circuit. While federal appellate courts generally handle over 50,000 cases annually, only about 10% of those decisions move on to the U.S. Supreme Court. This makes the Fourth Circuit a primary arbiter of law for the Mid-Atlantic region, balancing heavy workloads with a tradition of judicial decorum.

The court also maintains specific administrative links to the nation's highest court. Because Richmond is located in close proximity to Washington, D.C., the Chief Justice of the United States is always assigned to the Fourth Circuit as its circuit justice.

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