Dockets, filings, and court records
In Forma Pauperis
In forma pauperis, often shortened to IFP, is permission to litigate without paying the court's filing fees because you cannot afford them.
A party applies with a sworn financial affidavit, and the judge or a magistrate judge decides. Approval waives the filing fee and can cover service of process by the U.S. Marshals. Prisoners are handled differently: they usually still owe the fee, paid over time out of their trust account.
IFP status also triggers screening. Courts review IFP complaints early and may dismiss claims that are frivolous or fail to state a claim before the defendant is ever served. It does not by itself provide free PACER access, which is a separate request.
For anyone reading a docket, an IFP order early in a case signals a self-represented party and often a compressed procedural history, because screening can dispose of claims before the defendant has appeared or filed anything.
How it appears on a docket
ORDER granting 2 Motion for Leave to Proceed In Forma Pauperis. The Clerk shall issue summons and the U.S. Marshal shall serve the complaint.
Governing rule
28 U.S.C. Sec. 1915
Related terms
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