On November 28, 2025, the United States Court of Federal Claims (CFC) observed a holiday closure, as stipulated by a general order. While such closures may seem routine or insignificant, they can have important consequences for businesses and government contractors who rely on the court’s timely decisions, particularly when it comes to issues like bid protests, contract disputes, or claims for compensation.
For government contractors, timing is crucial. Many are involved in complex projects related to federal procurement, defense contracting, or federal grants, and the decisions of the CFC often play a pivotal role in these ventures. A one-day closure might not seem like a major disruption, but for firms that depend on fast resolutions or critical rulings, even short delays can lead to significant setbacks. For example, the court’s closure might push back the timeline for addressing a bid protest or slow down the resolution of a contract dispute, causing financial or operational challenges.
Legal experts emphasize that understanding the court’s calendar is now a critical part of risk management for contractors. In many cases, contractors are bound by strict deadlines for compliance, performance, and decision-making. If a ruling that directly affects a project or contract is delayed by a holiday closure, contractors may face challenges in meeting those deadlines, potentially risking penalties or jeopardizing a contract. For this reason, staying informed about the court’s holiday schedules and planned closures is becoming a best practice for legal teams and project managers involved in federal work.
To mitigate the potential impacts of court closures, experts recommend that legal teams and government contractors build buffer periods into their project plans. By anticipating that key rulings could be delayed by a day or more, contractors can plan accordingly, allowing extra time for compliance or adjusting their expectations for when legal decisions will be issued. This proactive approach can help prevent disruptions in contract performance and ensure that deadlines are still met, even if there are delays in receiving court rulings.
In addition to considering the immediate effects of holiday closures, contractors are advised to regularly monitor the court’s calendar for any other scheduled closures or delays. Given the complexity and high stakes of government contracting, it is essential to anticipate potential disruptions and adjust project plans to ensure continued compliance with federal requirements. While tracking court holidays might seem like a minor administrative task, it can have significant implications for a contractor’s ability to stay on schedule, comply with regulations, and effectively manage litigation strategies.
In summary, while the closure of the United States Court of Federal Claims on November 28, 2025, may seem like a minor event, its impact on contractors can be substantial. Delays in court rulings can affect project timelines, compliance, and even the overall success of government contracts. By building buffer periods into project timelines and staying informed about court schedules, contractors can better navigate these potential disruptions and maintain their business operations effectively.
