As the federal government shutdown extends into its third week, the U.S. federal court system is set to scale back operations starting Monday, October 20, due to depleted funds. This development marks the first instance in nearly three decades where the judiciary has had to furlough non-essential staff, potentially leading to delays in case proceedings.
Initially, the judiciary managed to sustain full operations by utilizing court fee balances and other non-appropriated funds. However, these resources have now been exhausted. Consequently, while courts will remain open, only essential functions will continue, and many court employees will begin receiving furlough notices. Judges will continue to receive their salaries, as mandated by the Constitution, but numerous staff members—including probation officers and court clerks—will be required to work without pay. Jury payments will persist temporarily, but federal public defenders and private attorneys appointed under the Criminal Justice Act are already experiencing delayed or halted compensation. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-courts-set-run-out-money-begin-furloughs-shutdown-lingers-2025-10-17/?utm_source=openai))
The Supreme Court will proceed with hearing cases but has closed its building to the public. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-courts-set-run-out-money-begin-furloughs-shutdown-lingers-2025-10-17/?utm_source=openai))
In response to the shutdown, the judiciary had previously announced plans to maintain paid operations through October 17 by leveraging available fees and balances. ([uscourts.gov](https://www.uscourts.gov/data-news/judiciary-news/2025/10/01/judiciary-still-operating-shutdown-starts?utm_source=openai))
As the shutdown continues, the judiciary’s ability to function effectively is increasingly compromised, raising concerns about access to justice and the timely resolution of cases. Legal professionals and court officials are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift resolution to restore full operations.