Providing an adequate defense may require Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel attorneys to utilize computer hardware or software not typically available in a law office. Counsel may apply to the court for authorization of CJA funds for the acquisition of such property. [Guide, Vol. 7, § 320.70.40]
Before seeking court approval, for any computer hardware or software with a cost exceeding the limitations in § 310.20.30(a), or for the utilization of computer systems, litigation support products, services, personnel, or experts with an expected combined cost exceeding $10,000, appointed counsel must consult the National Litigation Support Team in the Office of Defender Services of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (phone number: 510-637-3500) for guidance.
See Appendix 3D, Sample Order Authorizing the Acquisition of Computer Hardware and/or Software Under the Criminal Justice Act for further detail.
The computer hardware and/or software acquired with CJA funds remains the property of the United States and upon the completion of the case it must be returned in good condition to a federal defender organization or office designated by ODS.
See http://www.fd.org/odstb_LitigationSupport.htm for litigation support materials and resources.