What does "in forma pauperis" allow a person to do?

The term "in forma pauperis" refers to a legal status that allows a person to proceed in court without the burden of paying court fees. It is typically granted to individuals who cannot afford to pay the required fees to file a lawsuit or appeal a case. This provision serves to ensure that access to the judicial system is available to those who are economically disadvantaged, thereby promoting fairness and equality in legal proceedings.

By allowing someone to proceed without liability for court fees, the courts aim to uphold the principle that justice should not be postponed or denied based on an individual's financial circumstances. Other choices, while relevant to legal processes, do not correctly capture the specific function of "in forma pauperis." For example, proceeding without an attorney involves different legal rights, while requesting a speedy trial and appealing a court decision are separate procedural rights that do not relate to the financial aspect encapsulated in "in forma pauperis."