About
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit handles appeals of decisions made in district and other federal courts of the Ninth Circuit.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit hears appeals of cases decided by certain federal agencies and by federal trial courts, also known as district courts, in its 15 judicial districts in the western United States and two Pacific island jurisdictions.
Most appeals are heard by a three-judge panel.
In some cases, the court may rehear a case en banc—with 11 judges instead of three, led by the Chief Judge.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has four main courthouses: Pasadena, Portland, San Francisco, and Seattle. The court also sits at other federal courthouses and law schools around the circuit.
Facts about the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit from the Federal Judicial Center
Mission
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit works to decide cases fairly and on time by applying the U.S. Constitution and federal laws in a consistent and clear way.
Clerk of Court
The Clerk’s Office files and maintains all documents submitted to the court. It also handles all administrative duties related to processing cases.
The main office is in San Francisco. Other offices are located in Pasadena, Portland and Seattle.
Contact: Molly Dwyer, Clerk of Court
Mailing address Office of the Clerk | Physical address Office of the Clerk |
Judges
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has 29 authorized judgeships.
Courthouse Locations and Hours
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit hears cases primarily in San Francisco, Pasadena, Seattle, and Portland.
Court Fees
Fees for filing and bar admission.
Disability Accommodation
See accommodations for people with disabilities.
Contact Us
The main telephone number is (415) 355-8000.
For questions about pending cases and filing, email the Clerk’s Office at questions@ca9.uscourts.gov. Be sure to tell us your case number and contact information.