Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)

Costs to record, or “file” documents such as the complaint, vary from the type of document, or pleading, to the county in which you begin your case. Some court filing costs may be in the hundreds of dollars. If you cannot afford to pay these fees to the court, you will need to complete this form from the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts entitled, In Forma Pauperis, a Latin term, referring to someone who cannot pay.

You will be asked for your income and expense statements. The court may require that you appear in person for a hearing or a judge may decide based upon the information you provide on the In Forma Pauperis form. Instructions are included in the form. Once completed, take the IFP form to the appropriate records office in your county courthouse. This office is called the Prothonotary or Office of Judicial Records.

This form may be used in all family law proceedings.

Download the Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis with instructions

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