in forma pauperis

[ in fawr-muh paw-puh-ris ]

adjective

, Law.

1. without liability for court costs and court fees:

   permission to sue in forma pauperis.

Word History and Origins

Origin of in forma pauperis¹

1585–95; < Latin: as a pauper

Example Sentences

In 2020, Wooden appealed to the Supreme Court in forma pauperis, meaning he did not have to pay the regular fees because he is indigent.

From Slate

Although they may be possessed of ample means litigants often obtain from the court permission to sue a foreigner in forma pauperis.

From Project Gutenberg

Up to now the procedure in forma pauperis has not been of practical benefit to the poor except in enabling an occasional important appeal to reach the House of Lords.

From Project Gutenberg

This man could not have proceeded in forma pauperis, as by our then system this was not open to anyone with more than thirty shillings a week with no means above twenty-five pounds and clothing.

From Project Gutenberg

A device for suing in forma pauperis working only in London, such as is set up by the new rules, cannot be of much avail in tackling the problem of placing legal advice and assistance at the call of the poor.

From Project Gutenberg