Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Definition: An in forma pauperis affidavit is a sworn statement made by an indigent person seeking public assistance, appointment of counsel, waiver of court fees, or other free public services. It is also known as a poverty affidavit or IFP affidavit. This type of affidavit is used to prove that the person cannot afford to pay for legal services or court fees.
Example: A person who cannot afford to pay for a lawyer to represent them in court may file an in forma pauperis affidavit to request that the court appoint a lawyer to represent them for free. Another example is a person who cannot afford to pay court fees to file a lawsuit may file an IFP affidavit to request that the court waive the fees.
Explanation: The examples illustrate how an in forma pauperis affidavit is used to prove that a person is indigent and cannot afford to pay for legal services or court fees. This type of affidavit is important because it allows people who cannot afford to pay for legal services or court fees to have access to the justice system.