Topaz Johnson, et al., Petitioners v. High Desert State Prison, et al.

This case asked whether each incarcerated plaintiff proceeding in forma pauperis (without prepaying court fees) must pay the full filing fee even when several plaintiffs file one joint civil suit. The Supreme Court's docket action ended the case, but the available record shows only a petition for review, so the Court declined review and did not decide that question on the merits.

The fee rule can affect whether incarcerated people can realistically bring a joint lawsuit. For example, if each person must pay the full fee, a group of prisoners may face much higher costs than if they could split one fee.

There is no further Supreme Court action expected in this case. The Ninth Circuit's rule remains controlling in that court unless the issue returns in a future case.

The petition asked whether each incarcerated plaintiff filing in forma pauperis must pay the full filing fee in a joint civil action. The Supreme Court did not resolve that question here.

Incarcerated people who want to file one civil case together are most directly affected. The answer can change how expensive it is to sue.

This Supreme Court case is over. The Ninth Circuit's decision stays in effect, and the legal question could return in a later case.