What does "in forma pauperis" mean in the context of waiver of service?

The term "in forma pauperis" is a legal concept that allows individuals who cannot afford the usual court fees to proceed with their case without having to pay those fees. This means that if a plaintiff qualifies as low-income, they can apply for permission to file their lawsuit without incurring the financial burdens typically associated with legal proceedings, such as filing fees or service fees for delivering court documents to the defendant.

This process ensures access to the judicial system for those who might otherwise be unable to pursue legal action due to financial constraints. The other options do not accurately represent the meaning of "in forma pauperis." For instance, it does not refer to exemptions for defendants, expedited services, or prioritizing a case based on its financial implications.