The American legal system is built on the promise of timely and fair resolution of disputes, but an ongoing judicial vacancy crisis threatens to undermine this core principle. Across the country, federal courts are struggling under the weight of burgeoning caseloads, leading to significant delays, increased litigation costs, and diminished access to justice for all.
ABA members are calling on Congress to authorize additional federal judgeships and to expedite the filling of existing vacancies. Federal district court filings have grown by more than 30% since 1990, yet the number of authorized judgeships has only increased by 4%. Meanwhile, civil cases pending for more than three years have skyrocketed by 346%.
The Judicial Conference of the United States, the policymaking body for the federal judiciary, has recommended creating two additional circuit judgeships and 69 new district court judgeships for courts facing the most severe caseload pressures.
These recommendations, based on rigorous surveys and caseload analysis, are designed to ensure courts can handle cases efficiently and fairly. ABA members will urge Congress to implement these recommendations without delay.
Behind every pending case is an individual or business seeking justice. ABA advocates will emphasize that congressional action is critical to preserving the efficiency, integrity, and public confidence in the judiciary.