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For example, if the judge is going to sit by designation out-of-state? Do you get reimbursed all travel expenses? Some? Is there a per diem, or do you keep and then turn in receipts?

Anonymous User wrote:For example, if the judge is going to sit by designation out-of-state? Do you get reimbursed all travel expenses? Some? Is there a per diem, or do you keep and then turn in receipts?

Yes, clerks will often travel with their judges when the judges sit by designation. Depending on many factors, some or all of your travel expenses may be reimbursed. If you want to know how it will work in your specific case, you're going to have to ask someone who works at your court (like the judge or the JA or someone in HR).

Do you get to go party with them in the evenings?

Turn in receipts. The HR person at your home courthouse will be your go-to.

I did this when my judge sat by designation on another district court. I got all hotel/flight/mileage expenses reimbursed, as well as a per diem. The per diem wasn't enough to cover all my expenses, but (a) I probably splurged a bit, and (b) it still subsidized me enough where I was paying as much or less as I would have back home.

our JA handled all of this

On the off chance that you aren't on per diem and, instead, have to show meal receipts, a tip I learned a week and $500 too late:

Be clear if they require the original sales receipt (the "check" at the end of the meal that confirms you didn't have drinks or an authorized guest) or proof that you were the actual payer (the credit card slip which doesn't itemize). Different agencies have different rules. Some may even just let you submit a redacted credit card bill.

Also, see if you need to have separate checks or if one clerk can pay and submit for everyone (i.e. the one with the most cashback).