How to file a case for FREE!

How to qualify:

• If you make $1906.60 per month (Arkansas minimum wage) then a judge is likely to find you “indigent” and sign off on the paperwork allowing you to file your case for free. 
• You can also qualify if you have dependents (minor children living in your home that you financially support).

How to File an In Forma Pauperis:

First fill out the following information: Click Here

• Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
• Affidavit to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
• Proposed Order to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

The Affidavit to Proceed In Forma Pauperis will ask you specific questions about your monthly income; your assets; and questions about your dependents.

You MUST fill out all the information completely and truthfully.

The Affidavit MUST be signed and notarized IN FRONT OF a notary.

Affidavits that are NOT notarized will NOT be considered by the Judge.

Once you fill out the Affidavit

• Get Your Papers Ready – You need three papers:

  • Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

  • Affidavit to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

  • Proposed Order to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

• Prepare Your Main Filing – You also need the main paper for your case, like:

  • A Petition for Guardianship (if asking for guardianship)

  • A Complaint for Divorce (if asking for a divorce)

• Take Everything to the Clerk – Bring all the papers to the circuit clerk at the courthouse.

• Judge Reviews Your Request – The judge will look at your papers and decide if you can file for free.

• Judge’s Decision:

  • If Approved: The judge signs the order, and you don’t have to pay.

  • If Not Approved: You will need to pay a $165.00 fee to file your case.