Supporters Urged to Pack Courtroom for Stanford 11 Trial

Activists call for large showing at Santa Clara Hall of Justice for high-profile case

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:47pm

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Organizers are encouraging supporters to pack the courtroom and hallways of the Santa Clara Hall of Justice on Thursday, January 29th for the trial of the so-called "Stanford 11". The trial is taking place in Department 53, and the organizers note that the courtroom has limited capacity, so those who don't get a seat are still urged to gather in the hallways to show their support.

Why it matters

The Stanford 11 trial has drawn significant attention and controversy, with the defendants facing charges related to protests and civil disobedience actions. The call to pack the courtroom and hallways is an effort to demonstrate the level of public interest and support for the defendants.

The details

The trial is taking place at the Santa Clara Hall of Justice in Department 53. Attendees are advised to park across the street or use metered parking, as the courthouse has limited parking. The organizers note that the proceedings can also be accessed remotely via the County Website's remote hearings page for Department 53.

  • The trial is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

The players

Stanford 11

A group of activists facing charges related to protests and civil disobedience actions.

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What they’re saying

“Pack the court! Thursday Jan 29th, 8:30AM”

— Anonymous, Organizer (indybay.org)

What’s next

The judge will preside over the trial and make decisions on the charges and potential sentencing for the defendants.

The takeaway

This trial has become a flashpoint for debates around civil disobedience, free speech, and the limits of protest. The call to pack the courtroom and hallways reflects the high stakes and strong emotions surrounding this case.