Age Reversal Unity v. New York University

Background

Ali Afshar Shandiz filed this action on behalf of Age Reversal Unity against New York University and other defendants. The opinion states that Shandiz is proceeding without a lawyer. The court noted that federal law allows a person to represent himself but does not allow a nonlawyer to bring a lawsuit on behalf of another entity.

To proceed with a civil action, a plaintiff must either pay $405 in fees—a $350 filing fee plus a $55 administrative fee—or submit a signed application to proceed without prepaying fees. Shandiz submitted such an application, but stated that he was unemployed and had no income without answering questions about his last employment, prior wages, or how he paid his living expenses. He also entered zero for questions about cash, bank accounts, property, expenses, dependents, and debts.

Court’s Analysis

Because the application did not provide enough information for the court to determine whether Shandiz could afford the filing fees, the court did not authorize him to proceed without prepayment at this stage. The court directed him to provide complete answers and facts establishing that he cannot pay if he submits an amended application.

Order

Within 30 days of the order, Shandiz must either pay the $405 in fees or submit an amended application to proceed without prepaying fees, labeled with docket number 24-CV-4808 (LTS). No summons will issue at this time. If he complies, the case will be processed under the Clerk’s Office procedures. If he does not comply within the allowed time, the action will be dismissed.

The court also certified that an appeal from the order would not be taken in good faith and denied permission to proceed without prepaying fees for purposes of an appeal.