Rule 9.370 — Amicus Curiae

Rule 9.370 — Amicus Curiae

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(a) When Permitted. An amicus curiae may file a brief only by leave of court. A motion for leave to file must state the movant’s interest, the particular issue to be addressed, how the movant can assist the court in the disposition of the case, and whether all parties consent to the filing of the brief.

(b) Contents and Form. An amicus brief must comply with Rule 9.210(b) but shall omit a statement of the case and facts and may not exceed 20 pages. The cover must identify the party or parties supported. An amicus brief must include a concise statement of the identity of the amicus curiae and its interest in the case.

(c) Time for Service. An amicus curiae must serve its brief no later than 10 days after the first brief, petition, or response of the party being supported is filed. An amicus curiae that does not support either party must serve its brief no later than 10 days after the initial brief or petition is filed. A court may grant leave for later service, specifying the time within which an opposing party may respond. The service of an amicus curiae brief does not alter or extend the briefing deadlines for the parties. An amicus curiae may not file a reply brief.

(d) Notice of Intent to File Amicus Brief in Supreme Court. When a party has invoked the discretionary jurisdiction of the supreme court, an amicus curiae may file a notice with the court indicating its intent to seek leave to file an amicus brief on the merits should the court accept jurisdiction. The notice shall state briefly why the case is of interest to the amicus curiae, but shall not contain argument. The body of the notice shall not exceed one page.

"Friend of the Court" Briefs: "Amicus curiae" is Latin for "friend of the court." This rule allows a person or group who is not a party to the appeal, but has a strong interest or special expertise in the legal issue, to file a brief to assist the court.

(a) Getting Permission: An amicus brief can only be filed with the court's permission. A "motion for leave" must be filed that explains the person's or group's interest in the case, what specific issue they will address, and how their input will be helpful to the judges.

(b) & (c) Format and Deadlines:

  • Shorter Brief: Amicus briefs are shorter than party briefs (usually limited to 20 pages) and don't need to repeat the facts of the case.
  • Quick Deadline: The brief must be filed quickly, usually within 10 days after the brief of the party they are supporting is filed.
  • No Reply: An amicus curiae cannot file a reply brief.

The goal is to provide the court with a unique perspective or specialized knowledge that the parties themselves may not have, helping the court make a more informed decision.