Are courts open during a government shutdown?

With the failure of Congress to pass funding to keep the federal government from a shutdown , people often question what is affected, including the courts.

MaryAnn Spoto, the communications manager for the New Jersey Judiciary, said state courts would remain open in the event of a federal shutdown.

The United States Courts are still operating as of Oct. 1 and "will continue paid operations through at least Oct. 3 by using court fee balances and other funds not dependent on a new appropriation," according to the U.S. Courts website.

The website said "most proceedings and deadlines" will go forward as scheduled.

"In cases where an attorney from an executive branch agency is not working because of the shutdown, hearing and filing dates may be rescheduled," the website said.

The electro