<P> In forma pauperis (/ ɪn ˈfɔːrmə ˈpɔːpərɪs /; IFP or i.f.p.) is a Latin legal term meaning "in the character or manner of a pauper". It refers to the ability of an indigent person to proceed in court without payment of the usual fees associated with a lawsuit or appeal . </P> <P> IFP was abolished in the United Kingdom in favor of a legal aid approach as part of the Legal Aid and Advice Act 1949 . </P> <P> In the United States, the IFP designation is given by both state and federal courts to someone who is without the funds to pursue the normal costs of a lawsuit or a criminal defense . The status is usually granted by a judge without a hearing, and it entitles the person to a waiver of normal costs, and sometimes in criminal cases the appointment of counsel . While court - imposed costs such as filing fees are waived, the litigant is still responsible for other costs incurred in bringing the action such as deposition and witness fees . However, in federal court, a pauper can obtain free service of process through the United States Marshal's Service . </P>

Petition for a writ of certiorari and motion for leave to proceed in forma pauperis filed