WASHINGTON (Legal Newsline) -- Federal courts will remain open through Thursday, according to the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts.
Originally, when the government shutdown began Oct. 1, the judiciary said federal courts would remain open for business for about 10 business days.
"On or around Oct. 15, 2013, the judiciary will reassess its situation and provide further guidance," according to its website.
"All proceedings and deadlines remain in effect as scheduled, unless otherwise advised. Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) will remain in operation for the electronic filing of documents with courts."
However, in an update posted on its website late last week, the judiciary explained that it "severely restricted" spending during that time period, so limited additional funding now exists.
"Spending rates and fund balances will continue to be monitored closely in hope that adequate funds may be available to allow courts to operate through the end of the work week -- Oct. 18," according to the update.
However, some federal judges are pushing back.
According to The National Law Journal, at least two dozen federal and appellate courts have declared all employees essential as of Thursday.
The move goes against the judiciary, which urged the courts not to enter such orders deeming all staff members essential.
Only "essential" employees could keep working if Congress failed to pass a budget Oct. 1, the start of the fiscal year.
From Legal Newsline: Reach Jessica Karmasek by email at jessica@legalnewsline.com.
Federal courts to stay open this week; some judges fighting back
