Twelve U.S. federal judges are set to hear an appeal from the State of New Jersey into the August 2015 ruling that deemed the state’s sports wagering deregulation illegal.

As an article by the North South Brunswick Sentinel explains, 12 federal judges will hear the appeal in an ‘en banc’ hearing that is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia on February 17.

“I’m optimistic because the first step in granting an en banc hearing is six of the judges have to decide for whatever reason that they want to take another look at it,” the article has quoted Dennis Drazin, New Jersey Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association adviser, as saying.

Drazin also explained that both the State of New Jersey will be able to present oral arguments, and the judges will be able to ask questions.

Drazin further discussed the process, as he stated that a minimum of seven of the 12 judges must side with the State of New Jersey in order for the appeal to be successful. He was also cited as saying that there is no deadline for the decision, but that he expects one to be announced within two to three months after the appeal is heard.

The New Jersey Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, the New Jersey Racing Commission and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority are all on the State’s side in the matter, which is against four major professional sports leagues and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

(With files from the North South Brunswick Sentinel)