We have another unique opportunity to tour the United States District Court for the Southern District of California (CASD) and the United States Bankruptcy Court (CASB) on Friday, November 6, 2026. Following about 1 to 1.5 hours of court observation, the retired Community Outreach Programs Coordinator, Kathleen McMahon-Walford, will give an overview of the federal court system and then take us on a tour of the John Rhoades Federal Judicial Center. If time permits, prior to the tour, Hon. Janis L. Sammartino, whose calendar we will be observing, will make herself available to answer your questions.
The District Court, also known as the federal court, is located at 333 West Broadway in downtown San Diego. There are many ways to get downtown by public transportation, including the San Diego Trolley and buses. www.sdmts.com. There are also many public parking lots around the courthouses for various prices. You can reserve a parking space in advance at space.aceparking.com. There are also MTS Rapid Express buses that run from Escondido, Rancho Bernardo and Sabre Springs Transit Centers as well as park and ride options to get downtown. Choose whatever method will work best for you but be at the front of the building on Broadway before 8:30 a.m. get through security screenings and seated in the courtroom before the hearings begin.
Please meet before 8:30 a.m. at the corner of Union and Broadway in front of the federal building concourse. Reminder of no weapons, pocket knives or pepper spray to get through security, but a closed water bottle is allowed.
Following the tour, you will be able to get lunch at one of the many surrounding eateries.
No cost for this trip other than parking and your lunch.