The Seal of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit is a symbol representing the judicial authority and identity of this specific federal court. It serves as an emblem of justice, integrity, and impartiality within the legal system of the United States.The design typically includes the shield shape, enclosed by a ribbon inscribed with the court's name, "United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit." The shield may contain images symbolizing law, justice, and government, such as a balancing scale, an unsheathed sword, or a set of bars. The seal also often features the national coat of arms of the United States, emphasizing the court's role within the American judicial system.Established on October 1, 1981, the Fourth Circuit has jurisdiction over federal appeals originating from Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and parts of Tennessee and Georgia. The seal serves as a visual reminder of the court's solemn duty to uphold the Constitution and provide fair, unbiased judgments for cases presented before it.
