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When your ERISA long-term disability claim is denied and you’ve exhausted all administrative appeals with your insurance company, the next step may be to take your case to federal court. Where your case is filed matters greatly, because ERISA cases are reviewed under the law of the federal circuit in which you live or where the claim was handled.
At Cavey Law, we understand the unique rules and case law that apply in each federal circuit, and we use that knowledge to strengthen your case.
What Are the Federal Circuits?
The United States is divided into 12 regional federal appellate circuits plus the Federal Circuit. Each circuit covers specific states, and each has developed its own interpretations of ERISA law.
That means the way a judge reviews your disability claim may vary depending on your circuit. For example, some circuits are stricter in applying the “arbitrary and capricious” standard of review, while others may give claimants more leeway.
Knowing your circuit’s tendencies can make a difference in how we prepare and present your case.
Why the Circuit Matters in ERISA Claims
ERISA cases are usually decided based on the administrative record created during your claim and appeal with the insurance company. But how a judge interprets that record depends on circuit law.
Differences between circuits can include:
- Standards of Review: Whether the court defers heavily to the insurance company’s decision or takes a closer look.
- Procedural Rights: Rules about discovery, conflicts of interest, and whether you can introduce new evidence.
- Case Precedent: Prior ERISA rulings in that circuit that shape how current cases are decided.
Because of these differences, it’s critical to have an ERISA attorney who knows not just federal law, but also the specific case law in your circuit.
Federal Circuits for ERISA Disability Claims
Below are the federal circuits. Click on your circuit to learn more about how ERISA claims are handled in your region:
- First Circuit – Learn more
- Second Circuit – Coming soon
- Third Circuit – Coming soon
- Fourth Circuit – Coming soon
- Fifth Circuit – Coming soon
- Sixth Circuit – Coming soon
- Seventh Circuit – Coming soon
- Eighth Circuit – Coming soon
- Ninth Circuit – Coming soon
- Tenth Circuit – Coming soon
- Eleventh Circuit – Coming soon
- D.C. Circuit – Coming soon
- Federal Circuit – Coming soon
How Cavey Law Helps
We don’t just file ERISA appeals—we prepare every case with federal court in mind. That means building the administrative record to anticipate how your circuit may rule and positioning your case for the best possible outcome.
No matter what circuit you are in, our team has the knowledge, experience, and persistence to fight for your disability benefits.