MN HF4457

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 563.01, subdivision 3, to streamline the in forma pauperis process for civil court proceedings.

Persons represented by civil legal services programs or volunteer attorney programs based on indigency may proceed without prepayment of fees, costs, and security for costs if their attorney submits an affidavit or oral attestation, without requiring additional court findings.

Courts may order a $75 fee or partial payment of fees and costs for parties who do not meet full eligibility criteria but cannot pay all court costs.

Establishes presumed eligibility for in forma pauperis status for persons receiving public assistance, those with annual income not exceeding 125 percent of the federal poverty line, or those represented by civil legal services or volunteer attorney programs based on indigency.

All fees collected are transmitted to the commissioner of management and budget for deposit in the state general fund.