Presumptive Hourly Fee Schedule for Expert ServicesProvided in Criminal Justice Acts

Service Provider/Expert Hourly Rate

Ballistics/Firearms

 $175

Computer Forensics

 $150

DNA Expert

 $150

Fingerprint Expert

 $100

Forensic Accountant

 $150

Handwriting

 $100

Investigators

 $55 ($30 travel time)

Mitigation (capital cases)

 $75

Neuropsychologist

 $150

Paralegals/law clerks1

 $45

Psychiatrist

 $250

Psychologist

 $150

The hourly fees shown above have been approved by the Court as presumptive, meaning that these are the hourly rates the Court will approve absent special circumstances, demonstrated by the litigant, or found by the Court.

Any request for an increase to these rates must be accompanied by a detailed statement indicating the basis for a claim of inability to find an expert willing to serve at that rate, or a statement demonstrating the uniqueness of the case calling for special expertise.  The rate approved is always subject to a cap on the total amount approved, and the court may also, in its discretion, order a different hourly rate for testimony, travel, and may also order a flat rate for certain services, i.e., polygraphs, competency exams, and neurological testing.

1Counsel who employ in-house paralegal and/or law clerk staff may be paid at a rate that is less than or equal to the hourly cost (salary and benefits, not including overhead) to the firm, not to exceed $45 per hour.