Handbook XII.C: Preparation of Opinions
D.C. Circuit Rules — Handbook, Part XII. Making the Decision
If the case is to be decided with an opinion or memorandum, the author circulates a draft to the other members of the panel. The other judges are free to suggest changes in the proposed text, or they may draft and circulate concurring or dissenting opinions. These may lead to further changes in the majority opinion. Final drafts of all opinions to be published also are circulated to all judges on the Court. Following circulation of the drafts to the panel and the Court, the opinion is printed in house.