Richlin Security Service v. Chertoff

Disclosure: Howe & Russell filed an amicus brief in support of the petitioner.

Holding: A prevailing party that satisfies the Equal Access to Justice Act's other requirements may recover its paralegal fees from the government at prevailing market rates.

Judgment: Reversed and remanded, 9-0, in an opinion by Justice Samuel Alito on June 2, 2008. Justice Scalia joined the opinion except as to Part III-A. Justice Thomas joined the opinion except as to Parts II-B and III.

Briefs and Documents

Certiorari filings

• Opinion below (Federal Circuit)
• Petition for certiorari
• Brief in opposition
• Petitioner’s reply
• Amicus brief of the National Association of Legal Assistants (in support of petitioner)

Merits briefs (via ABA)

• Brief for Petitioner Richlin Security Service Company
• Brief for Respondent Michael Chertoff, Secretary of Homeland Security
• Reply Brief for Petitioner Richlin Security Service Company

Amicus briefs

• Brief for the National Association of Legal Assistants, Paralyzed Veterans of American, and the Nation Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives in Support of Petitioner