skip local navigation CJA Home Page CJA Forms FAQ


CJA FAQ - Frequently Asked Quesions

When can I submit my CJA 20 voucher for payment?
What is the limit for CJA 20 vouchers?
When can I submit my CJA 30 (death penalty) voucher for payment?
What is the limit for CJA 30 (death penalty) vouchers?
What if I go over the limit on my voucher?
How can I submit my voucher?
I know my voucher was received, but I haven’t heard anything since then. How do I know what is going on with my voucher?
Do I need to send a copy of my brief?
Do I need to send a copy of my petition for writ of certiorari?


When can I submit my CJA 20 voucher for payment?

CJA 20 vouchers can only be paid when the case has reached final disposition. Any voucher submitted before the issue of a mandate on a case, even if an attorney has finished his/her work on the case, will be returned as premature.


What is the limit for CJA 20 vouchers?

The case max depends on the last date work was performed on a case. Please see the chart below:

Date of Last Fee Worksheet Entry Case Max
January 1, 2015 to current $7100
March 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014 $7000
January 1, 2010 to February 28, 2014 $6900
March 11, 2009 to December 31, 2009 $6100
October 13, 2008 to March 10, 2009 $5600
Before October 13, 2008 $5000

Please note that the new case max amounts still include FEES ONLY and do not include expenses. If your expenses are the only thing taking your voucher over the limit, you do not need to submit a CJA-27.


When can I submit my CJA 30 (death penalty) voucher for payment?

CJA 30 vouchers can be paid at the court’s discretion on an interim basis, before final disposition of the case. Be aware, however, that amounts paid on an interim basis will be considered in the total expended on the case and may limit what can be paid on future vouchers.


What is the limit for CJA 30 (death penalty) vouchers?

Any request for compensation in excess of $15,000 in § 2254 and § 2255 cases, including any interim payments for representations of any one defendant is presumptively excessive. In federal capital prosecutions, the presumptive limit is $50,000.


What if I go over the limit on my voucher?

The Court will consider paying amounts over the stated limits in cases that are unusually complex or include other mitigating circumstances. You MUST submit a form CJA 27 with the voucher explaining why payment in excess of the presumptive cap is sought in order to be considered for any payment in excess. Vouchers over the presumptive cap that do not include a form CJA 27 will be returned.


How can I submit my voucher?

As of December 1, 2015 the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will no longer be able to process any vouchers in a paper format. All paper claims will be returned without processing. Beginning December 7, 2015 the you must submit your voucher using the online eVoucher system for reimbursement under the Criminal Justice Act. To request access to the system, email your request to cja_request@ca5.uscourts.gov or call 504-310-7799. Training materials and further information about eVoucher are available at (link to home page).


I know my voucher was received, but I haven’t heard anything since then. How do I know what is going on with my voucher?

We ask that you exercise patience and not inquire regarding your voucher until at least 30 days have passed from the date of your receipt email. Email is the best way to inquire about your voucher. Please include the appeal number with your inquiry.


Do I need to send a copy of my brief?

No. Briefs can be printed from our office if necessary.


Do I need to send a copy of my petition for writ of certiorari?

Yes. We do not have access to petitions for certiorari to the Supreme Court. If applicable, please include a copy for review.