INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION FOR COMMENCING ACTIONS IN FORMA PAUPERIS

The following instructions have been compiled to assist any person wishing to commence, prosecute, or defend any civil or criminal suit, action, proceeding, or appeal without prepayment of fees in this court. We have attempted to simplify procedures; however, we cannot and will not act as lawyers or give advice as counsel. We do not anticipate that these simple procedures will satisfy all needs, and the Local Rules of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma are available for more specific guidance. You should use the Local Rules along with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure in preparing your case. The Federal Rules are available at a public library.

IN FORMA PAUPERIS:

With in forma pauperis status you are commencing an action in this court without the prepayment of fees or costs because of your inability to pay or provide security therefor. 28 U.S.C. § 1915.

A $405.00 filing fee is required for commencing any civil suit, action or proceeding. A $5.00 filing fee is required for a habeas corpus action. A $605.00 filing fee is required for appeals to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. By requesting in forma pauperis status you are requesting the waiver of the payment of fees. You must submit an affidavit that includes a statement of all of your assets and that you are unable to pay the fees or give security therefor.