CJA FAQs
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What is the Criminal Justice Act?
The Criminal Justice Act was established to furnish quality representation in federal court for any person financially unable to obtain representation. Each United States district court, with the approval of the judicial council of the circuit, shall place in operation throughout the district a plan for furnishing representation for any person financially unable to obtain adequate representation. Representation under each plan shall include counsel and investigative, expert, and other services necessary for adequate representation. For more information regarding the Criminal Justice Act Plan for the Northern District of Texas, see Miscellaneous Order 3.
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How can I find out who is on the CJA Panel?
Directories of attorneys who serve on the voluntary Criminal Justice Act panel for the United States District Court, Northern District of Texas (Dallas CJA Panel) (Fort Worth CJA Panel), can be found on the court's website under Court Information, then Directories.
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How can I avoid delays in the processing of my CJA voucher?
- Use the e-Voucher System throughout your appointment.
- Include a CJA 26 form and a Memorandum Justifying Compensation (required under Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 7A, § 230.30) for compensation in excess of the applicable statutory limit.
- Indicate whether your voucher is for a final payment or an interim payment.
- Obtain pre-approval before using paralegals, associates, and experts.
- Include receipts for expenses over $50.
- If you move, update your information in eVoucher.
- Utilize case budgeting for capital cases and for complex or extended non-capital representations that are likely to exceed 300 attorney hours. Contact Circuit CJA Case Budgeting Attorney Meg Alverson for assistance in budget preparation: https://www.lb5.uscourts.gov/CJA2/CaseBudgeting/