en banc

Definition

A hearing before all judges of an appellate court rather than the usual three-judge panel, reserved for cases important enough to warrant full judicial attention. French for 'on the bench.'

Example Usage

The court agreed to rehear the case en banc due to its significant constitutional implications.

Origin

French phrase meaning 'in bench' or 'as a full bench'

Fun Fact

En banc rehearings are relatively rare—most circuit courts grant them in less than 1% of cases, making them the judicial equivalent of a reunion tour.

Source: Appellate procedure terminology

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