Welcome! The Criminal Justice Act (CJA) (18 U.S.C. § 3006A) provides federal funds for attorneys, experts, and services necessary for the adequate representation of indigent defendants. In the Eastern District of Washington, the CJA Unit of the Clerk's Office administers the CJA. In addition to overseeing payment to counsel and experts, the CJA Unit serves as a resource for panel members in their representation of indigent clients.
Resources for Panel Members
CJA Plan (Amended Plan Approved February 29, 2024)
Judicial Council of the Ninth Circuit CJA Policies and Procedures (Revised April 27, 2026)
9th Circuit Comp Handbook (eff. 2/29/2024)
Creating a CJA 26 — Waiving Case Compensation Maximums
Creating a CJA20 or 30 Voucher with Associate Functionality
Creating a CJA24 Authorization of Transcript Request
Creating a Single Login Profile
Frequently Asked Questions / Troubleshooting
Guide for Attorneys Importing Service Entries
Guidelines for Requesting an "Overnight" Transcript
Instructions to Obtain Transcripts of Sealed/Ex Parte Hearings
Linking an Authorization to a CJA21 Voucher
National CJA Voucher Reference Tool
Requesting Authorization for a Service Provider
Signing into eVoucher with Login.gov — New Procedure as of May 2024 (PDF)
— Video walk-through: https://youtu.be/vQlwGERUy_g
Single Login Profile Signin Password Locked
Interpreter List — Inclusion on this list does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement by the Eastern District of Washington or the Administrative Office of the United States Courts.
Hourly Rate Increase — Calendar Year 2026
Panel attorney hourly rates: $177/hr (non-capital) and $226/hr (capital), effective January 1, 2026.
Case Compensation Maximums (Non-Capital)
Investigative, Expert & Other Services (Effective 01/01/2025)
Waivable maximum with prior authorization: $3,000. Maximum without prior authorization: $1,000.
Experience-Based Hourly Rates in CJA Mega Cases
Most service providers will be compensated at the low end of these ranges.
No PACER fees charged under 18 U.S.C. § 3006A. See Fee Schedule.