in forma pauperis

As a poor person; a pauper.

In the manner of a pauper. Permission given to a person to sue without payment of court fees on claim of indigence or poverty.

"In the manner of a pauper." Permission given by the court to a person to file a case without payment of the required court fees because the person cannot pay them.

A party who cannot pay all of the court fees and costs can apply for “in forma pauperis” or “pauper status,” where the court grants the party permission to proceed without paying all the fees and costs.