Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Utah

Recovering Attorney Fees in Federal Court

When requesting a declaratory decree from federal court to prevent deprivation of civil rights by a private citizen, is there a federal statute that allows the recovery of attorney fees and court costs?

I know there is one for 1983 claims, but I can't find one for private citizens.

Also, if there is no statute, does that prevent me from asking for it and receiving it?

(I am proceeding pro se for now, but may need an attorney in the future.)


Asked on 3/02/04, 6:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Lundgren Alvin R. Lundgren, L.C.

Re: Recovering Attorney Fees in Federal Court

You cannot get attorney fees unless you are an attorney representing another person as a client. Attorney fees can be obtained several ways, either by statute or as a matter of "equity."

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Answered on 3/02/04, 8:21 pm


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