Handbook VII.E: Disposition by a Merits Panel
D.C. Circuit Rules — Handbook, Part VII. Motions Practice
Once a case is assigned to a merits panel, everything relating to the case comes under the exclusive control of the panel. All motions filed in the case are submitted to the panel.
When a motion is filed, it is transmitted to the panel with the motions papers, any supporting material, and any memorandum prepared by the Legal Division recommending a disposition. Once the panel members vote on the disposition of the motion, an order is prepared disposing of the motion. The order usually shows the names of the panel members.