Court of International Trade, United States, is a federal court that handles cases involving imports and other international business. The court hears both civil suits against the United States government and certain civil cases begun by the government. The court is in New York City, but it has nationwide authority and may conduct trials anywhere in the United States. The court was established in 1980 to replace the U.S. Customs Court. It consists of nine judges, who are appointed by the President subject to Senate approval. The President names one of the nine to serve as chief judge.