Legal Definitions - appeal in forma pauperis

An appeal in forma pauperis is when an indigent party, who cannot afford court costs, appeals a decision. This means that the court waives the fees for the appeal.

For example, if someone is found guilty in a lower court and wants to appeal the decision but cannot afford the fees, they can file an appeal in forma pauperis. This allows them to have their case heard without having to pay the usual fees.

Overall, an appeal in forma pauperis is a way for people who cannot afford the costs of an appeal to still have access to the justice system.