Charles v. T-Mobile USA, Inc.

Background

Nicolas A.N. Charles, who is representing himself, sued T-Mobile USA, Inc. and Assurance Wireless. He alleges that the defendants disconnected his Lifeline phone service without cause. In an order dated March 25, 2025, the court granted Charles permission to proceed without prepaying filing fees.

Court’s action

Because Charles was permitted to proceed without prepaying fees, the court explained that he may rely on the court and the U.S. Marshals Service to serve the defendants. The Clerk of Court was instructed to complete a U.S. Marshals Service Process Receipt and Return form for each defendant, issue a summons for each defendant, and deliver the necessary paperwork to the Marshals Service.

The court stated that service must be completed within 90 days after the summonses are issued. If service is not completed by then, Charles should request an extension of time. The court also directed Charles to notify it in writing if his address changes and stated that the action may be dismissed if he fails to do so.

Disposition and scope

Judge Katherine Polk Failla ordered the Clerk of Court to issue the summonses, prepare the service forms, and provide the documents to the U.S. Marshals Service. The court also directed that an information package and the order be mailed to Charles. This order concerns service and case administration; it does not decide whether Charles’s allegations against either defendant are legally valid.