The AFL's preliminary final weekend could potentially be overshadowed when Essendon and its coach James Hird find out on Friday whether they have won their court case against the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority.

The Federal Court revealed on Monday Justice John Middleton would deliver his decision on Friday in the Commonwealth Law Courts building at 1.30pm.

Essendon chairman Paul Little (R). Credit:Getty Images

It was not yet confirmed whether the decision will be broadcast live.

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The Bombers and Hird have argued the investigation conducted by ASADA and the AFL last year into the club's supplements program was unlawful, and the ensuing show-cause notices to 34 former and current Essendon players should be scrapped.

James Hird (R) with barrister Nick Harrington at the Federal Court. Credit:Getty Images

ASADA maintains it worked within its legislation, and has said it could reissue the show cause notices even if Justice Middleton rules in favour of the club and Hird.