Litigative expenses are “those which result directly from actions of the courts or have a direct connection with the prosecution of a case.” Such costs arise from court reporting, filing, fees, interpreters, consultants, advertising legal notices, transportation of evidence, special masters, and advisory reports from experts who will not serve as witnesses (e.g., appraisals). United States Attorneys may incur litigative expenses without specific authorization from EOUSA. Administrative expenses which the United States Attorneys may approve include the purchase of supplies, books, subscriptions, furniture, and equipment, as well as expenses relating to employee travel, overtime, and utility services, among other things. However, there are various limitations and other criteria that must be considered for legal and administrative expenses, including dollar limitations for purchases made using certified invoice procedures and for purchases made under other delegations of procurement authority. Lack of sufficient procurement authority in USAOs may require the involvement of EOUSA to place orders and make purchases. Moreover, as discussed in various sections of the JM and in other guidance, certain expenses require prior authorization from EOUSA, including United States Attorney travel outside of the United States Attorney’s federal judicial district (except for travel processed using local travel procedures), actual lodging expenses, premium class travel expenses, and food and entertainment expenses, among other things.

[updated February 2018]