This website is still being built.

We want to hear from you. Tell us what you think about how beta.ca9.uscourts.gov looks and functions.

Office of the Circuit Executive (OCE)

The OCE supports the Judicial Council, its committees, and all court units in the Ninth Circuit. Its responsibilities come from the Judicial Council or the Chief Judge.

Circuit Executive Role

Under federal law (28 U.S.C. § 332), each circuit may appoint a circuit executive. The executive manages nonjudicial operations of the Court of Appeals and may be given duties such as:

  • overseeing staff, budgets, and facilities

  • maintaining records and data systems

  • preparing reports and policy recommendations

  • serving as liaison with other courts, government offices, and the public

  • organizing meetings of judges and the Judicial Council

The circuit executive serves under the Judicial Council and Chief Judge and may appoint staff with council approval.

OCE Units

  • Executive Unit – supports the Judicial Council and implements its policies; coordinates with national judicial bodies; manages the OCE’s financial and operational functions.

  • Office of Workplace Relations – carries out the Employment Dispute Resolution (EDR) Policy; serves as contact for workplace misconduct concerns; conducts investigations, training, and data collection; provides support on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

  • Criminal Justice Act (CJA) unit – reviews attorney payment requests and case budgets; provides guidance on CJA policy and training; supports federal public defender recruitment and appointment.

  • Human Resources Unit – manages HR services for the Court of Appeals, OCE, and library staff; supports HR staff across the circuit; offers benefits information and training.

  • Court Operations, Policy, and Legal Affairs (COPLA) Unit – advises on court operations and staffing; manages projects related to case processing; coordinates visiting judge assignments and senior judge staffing; analyzes workload data.

  • Space and Facilities Unit – oversees building projects and space planning; coordinates with GSA, U.S. Marshals, and AO; supports security and emergency planning.

  • Public Information, Conference, and Education Unit – manages media, outreach, and publications; organizes the annual Judicial Conference and other events; provides educational and meeting support.

  • Information Technology Unit – provides technology leadership, planning, and cybersecurity support; helps coordinate IT needs across local, circuit, and national levels.

Contact

Mailing Address:
Office of the Circuit Executive
P.O. Box 193939
San Francisco, CA 94119-3939

Physical Address:
James R. Browning U.S. Courthouse
95 7th Street
Suite 429
San Francisco, CA 94103

Last updated February 10, 2026