Lefemine, Dba Columbia Christians for Life v. Wideman

Summary

The Supreme Court held that a plaintiff who obtains a permanent injunction that materially alters the defendant’s behavior is a "prevailing party" for purposes of an attorney’s‑fees award under 42 U.S.C. §1988. Accordingly, the Court vacated the Fourth Circuit’s decision that denied fees and remanded for further proceedings. The Court noted that it did not address whether any special circumstances would preclude an award.