Can I Get Family Court Fees Waived?
This page provides general legal information, not legal advice. Court rules and procedures can change. A qualified attorney can advise you about your situation.
You may qualify to have some court fees waived if you meet your jurisdiction's financial standards. You generally must file the court's required request or inability-to-pay statement and courts use different procedures to decide when to review it.
Read what the waiver covers
Courts use different procedures. California’s official information sheet describes a request for a fee waiver and the court’s decision on it (Judicial Council of California — FW-001-INFO). In Texas civil cases, Rule 145 directs the clerk to docket the case and provide ordinary services when a party files the required sworn statement, while allowing later review through the rule’s specified process (Tex. R. Civ. P. 145).
Eligibility, required proof, confidentiality, review, and covered fees vary by court. Find the official application through the state directory and follow that court’s instructions for what the request covers.
Read What It All Costs for a simple case-cost log.
Part of What It All Costs.