The hourly rates for CJA representation increase from $175 to $177 for non-capital cases and from $223 to $226 in capital cases for work performed on or after January 1, 2026. The case compensation maximum for appellate representation in direct criminal appeals and in appeals in 28 U.S.C. section 2241, 2254 and 2255 cases increases from $9,700 to $9,800. In "other" case types, the case compensation rate increases from $2,900 to $3,000.
Where appointment of counsel occurred before January 1, 2026, the new hourly compensation
rates apply to that portion of services provided on or after January 1, 2026.
CJA Panel Attorney Case Compensation Maximums (in Non-Capital Cases)
Because of the increase in the non-capital hourly rate, the waivable case compensation maximum
amounts for non-capital representations increase to:
$13,800 (previously $13,600)
$9,800 (previously $9,700)
$3,900 (unchanged)
$3,000 (previously $2,900)
Payments above these amounts may be authorized when certified by the presiding judicial officer
and approved by the circuit’s chief judge or their delegate. Guide, Vol. 7A, Ch. 2, § 230.23.10(c)
and § 230.23.40.
Previous hourly rates and case compensation maximums are available in the Guide to Judiciary Policy, Volume 7.
Back to News Page