Off-Plan Judges Forum

[zk1289]

Two questions:

1) Does anyone have insight on the best time to be applying to off-plan judges? I get that it's basically rolling, but trying to figure out what to tell my LOR writers for deadlines. Aiming for early April.

2) If judges are not already posting in OSCAR for 2023, can we assume they are off-plan? Thinking specifically of judges in VA (eastern and western district).

Thanks!

[Anonymous User]

Re: 2, definitely not—the vast majority of district courts are on-plan, and the telltale signs of an off-plan judge on OSCAR are requiring fewer than 2 years of grades and providing an email for apps

[zk1289]

Thanks for your reply! But what about judges who are not on OSCAR at all?

[Anonymous User]

Thanks for your reply! But what about judges who are not on OSCAR at all?

If a judge has indicated they are hiring, then you should have your recommenders reach out as soon as they are done with your letters. Even if there's nothing specific posted, you should apply and have them reach out now. As you noted, it's rolling, so they're hiring all the time. I don't think anyone can give you anything more specific than that unless you name the actual judge you're looking for information on.