The **5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals**, established in 1891, is a federal appellate court headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, with jurisdiction over district courts in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. It reviews cases appealed from federal district courts within its region, making it a critical arbiter in civil, criminal, and administrative law matters that shape regional and national jurisprudence[1][4][5][6]. Historically, the Fifth Circuit initially included Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, but these states were reassigned to the Eleventh Circuit in 1981 to handle increasing caseloads[1][4]. The court has 17 active judgeships and is named for John Minor Wisdom, a notable judge associated with its legacy[4]. The court is recognized for its significant influence on key legal and political issues, especially in business and technology law, given its jurisdiction over economically vital states. However, it has gained notoriety in recent years as one of the most conservative federal appellate courts, often issuing rulings that affect voting rights, reproductive rights, and regulatory policies. Some observers describe it as a right-wing activist court that has issued rulings viewed as restricting democratic participation and regulatory oversight, which has profound implications for businesses and technology governance in its states[2][3][7]. Despite its conservative bent, the 5th Circuit plays a vital role in shaping legal debates that reach the U.S. Supreme Court, influencing the national legal landscape even when its decisions are reversed. Its rulings often push the boundaries of legal theory and policy, affecting areas such as drug regulation, gun safety, and election law, which are crucial to business operations and technological innovation[3]. Currently led by Chief Judge Jennifer W. Elrod, the court continues to hear and decide cases that impact law, commerce, and governance across a diverse and economically important region of the United States[5][6]. Its decisions remain closely watched by legal experts, business leaders, and policymakers interested in the