The new hourly rates for Private Assigned Counsel (PAC) become effective October 1, 2026. The new rate chart is posted online at https://www.ncids.org/counsel-rates/ under “Current Hourly Assigned Rates.” For reference, the chart includes columns for the “old” rates and the “new” rates.
To ensure that you are paid the correct rate for the work you do,
- If you use OASIS or defenderData, the applications have been programmed to automatically apply the correct hourly rate based upon the dates and case type you enter.
- If you use a fee application, please check the rate chart for the applicable rate based on the case type.
Notes about Mileage: Effective October 1, with limited exceptions, attorneys can continue to bill for time spent traveling but will no longer be able to bill for mileage.
IDS is grateful to the General Assembly for recognizing the need for more PAC funding. Above all, the IDS Commissioners and agency staff are grateful to the lawyers who do this important work for the people of North Carolina.
A detailed memorandum about the rate increases from IDS Commission Chair Bryan Jones can be found here.
Whitney Fairbanks, IDS Executive Director
