The opinion
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT OF OHIO
WESTERN DIVISION
Charles Starks, Case No. 3:24-cv-1220
Plaintiff,
v. ORDER
Sandusky County
Board of Commissioners, et al.,
Defendants.
On May 20, 2025, Plaintiff’s filed a Bill of Costs, seeking $3,914.97. (Doc. No. 21). The
next day, on May 21, 2025, Defendants filed an objection, alleging the Bill of Costs improperly
includes the cost of expert fees in the amount of $3,500. (Doc. No. 22). In support, Defendants
correctly notes that the Sixth Circuit has held “expert witness fees may not be taxed as costs at a
court’s discretion under Rule 54(d) because [28 U.S.C. ]§ 1920 does not provide for them.” L & W
Supply Corp. v. Acuity, 475 F.3d 737, 741 (6th Cir. 2007). Plaintiff filed nothing in response to
Defendants’ objection to suggest any exception applies, which may justify an award of expert fees.
Accordingly, I sustain Defendants’ objection and award Plaintiff $414.97 in costs.
So Ordered.
s/ Jeffrey J. Helmick
United States District Judge