This form is to be used to request funding for expert services on your LSDO-appointed OLS case. You must receive advanced approval via this form to utilize an expert if you want LSDO to pay for that expert. Expert services include Interpreters (other than Spanish - see below), Investigators, Mental Health or other Case-Related Expert witnesses, and Transcription requests. Prior to submitting this form, you should contact the Expert to obtain an estimate of the cost of their services (typically based on an hourly rate) & confirm that they have the time needed to complete your expert service request and that they don't have a conflict.
The only exception to the advanced approval policy is use of LSDO pre-approved Spanish Language Interpreters. These contractors do not require prior approval.
LSDO's Legal Director will review your request and will let you and the expert know if the request is approved and the maximum amount approved. If you later need additional hours for your case, please submit a new Expert Services Request Form. Please submit one form per case and type of request.
Once you receive approval, you should work with the Expert directly to schedule their services. All Expert services must be paid directly by LSDO (we cannot reimburse attorneys for payments made to experts). Once they have completed their services, Experts can submit their invoice for payment here.
