The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit will hold a special sitting at Seattle University School of Law on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, offering students, faculty, and members of the public an opportunity to experience federal appellate proceedings on campus.
The three-judge panel — Senior Circuit Judge M. Margaret McKeown, Senior Circuit Judge Richard A. Paez, and Circuit Judge Roopali H. Desai — will hear oral arguments beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Justice Fred H. Dore Courtroom of Sullivan Hall, the building that houses the School of Law. The special sitting is part of the court’s broader effort to engage with the legal community and promote understanding of the appellate process.
Following the morning session, the judges will meet with law students for a moderated discussion about judicial decision-making, appellate practice, and their experiences on the bench. The judges will be accompanied by their judicial law clerks, who will also engage with students to share insights about appellate practice and the clerkship experience.
“We are honored to host the Ninth Circuit and grateful for the opportunity to connect our students directly with federal circuit judges whose work helps shape the law, not only in the western United States but also across the nation,” said Seattle U Law Dean Anthony E. Varona. “This important event illustrates how our law school’s reputation as a national leader in experiential education is well earned.”
The hearings are open to students, faculty, and the public. Seating is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. The proceedings will also be livestreamed. Cases on the docket are listed on the Ninth Circuit's site.
The Ninth Circuit occasionally holds special sittings at law schools throughout the region as part of its educational outreach mission, allowing students to observe oral arguments and deepen their understanding of the federal judiciary. For Seattle U Law, the visit underscores its commitment to academic excellence, professional formation, and hands-on learning that connects students directly with the practice of law.
Please note that court security officers will be providing security for the oral arguments in the Dore Courtroom and will be scanning each attendee as they enter the courtroom. Bags will not be permitted in the courtroom. Please store any bags in your lockers or other secured places outside of the courtroom.