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The Evolving Role of Oral Argument in the Federal Circuit

A significant shift has occurred in the Federal Circuit's approach to oral arguments since 2007, with judges now quoting them far more frequently, often acknowledging concessions.

Editorial Staff · 2026-06-30 · 1 MIN READ
The Evolving Role of Oral Argument in the Federal Circuit

In 2007, Federal Circuit judges rarely referenced oral arguments in their decisions. This practice has changed dramatically over the years.

Currently, judges quote oral arguments approximately 143 times annually, indicating a notable increase in their relevance during legal proceedings.

Interestingly, nearly half of these quotes involve concessions, suggesting that oral arguments may play a crucial role in shaping judicial outcomes.