PROVIDENCE, RI -- In response to inquiries regarding federal judicial appointments, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse today outlined the process for ensuring there are highly-qualified applicants to fill vacancies on the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. District Court in Providence.

All interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Senator Reed's office (1000 Chapel View Boulevard, Suite 290, Cranston, RI 02920) by February 11, 2009. The goal is to identify highly-qualified and experienced candidates for these important federal judgeships who will serve the people of Rhode Island with professionalism, integrity, and distinction.

The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, based in Boston, hears appeals from Rhode Island, and Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Puerto Rico.

The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island is the state's federal trial court that has jurisdiction to hear nearly all categories of federal cases, including both civil and criminal matters.

It is customary for the President to ask U.S. Senators for recommendations for judicial appointments, although ultimately it is the President's role to nominate a candidate who must then be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.