Because of the importance of these concerns to the administration of justice within the Circuit, we think that it will be useful for the Clerk's office to posit that a paper styled as a mandamus petition will not be subject to the PLRA unless it appears clearly that the styling is an effort to avoid the requirements of that Act. We also suggest that it follow the procedures set forth in the margin. Of course, if a prisoner files a paper that is styled as a mandamus petition and that does not clearly appear to be an effort to avoid the requirements of the PLRA but that in fact constitutes an appeal in a civil action, the PLRA would likely apply and a filing fee would have to be collected. This makes clear that the Clerk's office's treatment of questionable mandamus petitions must be subject to review by the Court. Turning to the merits of Madden's mandamus petition, we find no basis for granting the petition for writ of mandamus.
Mandamus is an appropriate remedy in extraordinary circumstances only.
Kerr v. U.S Dist. A petitioner seeking the issuance of a writ of mandamus must have no other adequate means to obtain the desired relief, and must show that the right to issuance is clear and indisputable. Madden asks this Court to issue an order directing the district court to decide his case forthwith and to hold that his claims have been exhausted. Madden cannot demonstrate that a writ of mandamus is warranted. Because he can appeal the decision of the district court when a final order is issued, Madden cannot demonstrate that no other adequate means of relief regarding the issue of exhaustion exists.