Public Defender's Handbook

Presiding Officer of the Court

The U.S. Marshal is only authorized to reimburse travel expenses from the place the subpoena was served to the court city and return. The U.S. Marshal’s office is not authorized to reimburse expenses greater than normal government travel rates. Some special situations arise that can be addressed by the presiding officer of the Court or the Clerk of the Court.

Should a witness have special needs for which reimbursement is anticipated, please contact the presiding officer of the Court or the Clerk of the Court before incurring expenses. The U.S. Marshal’s office cannot pay without written approval of the Court. Special situations may include and are not limited to:

• first class air travel
• rental cars
• baby sitters
• pet care
• ambulance or nursing attendants’ fees

The following types of expenditures are not authorized:

• phone calls
• dry cleaning
• room service
• bar tabs