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Federal funding lapse could slow filings and hearings as US courts shift schedules and staffing.

By Nicholas J. Boyle, Roberto J. Borgert, and Katherine Griffitts

As of October 20, 2025, the federal judiciary’s funding lapse is now disrupting day-to-day court operations. After exhausting fee balances and other non-appropriated funds, several US trial-level courts began reducing activity on Fridays — and in some instances closing courthouses entirely for the day. The changes underscore a new phase of constrained court-by-court…

Supreme court building

The shutdown’s effect on federal court proceedings is in flux. For now, most litigants should expect business as usual in the nation’s courthouses, at least in private civil matters.

By Nicholas J. Boyle, Roberto J. Borgert, and Katherine Griffitts

Updated on October 23, 2025

On October 17, 2025, the Administrative Office of the US Courts confirmed that the federal judiciary has exhausted its funding to sustain full, paid operations. Under the Anti-Deficiency Act, court staff may only perform…