Definition

Noun: * An individual or organization that is not a party to a lawsuit but is permitted by the court to provide information, expertise, or perspective on the legal issues involved. This is typically done to assist the court in reaching a decision, especially in cases that may affect the public interest.

Usage

The term "friend of the court" is a formal legal term. It is used to describe a third party who submits a legal brief (a written argument) or, less commonly, presents oral arguments to advise the court. This action is taken to influence the court's ruling on a matter of broad public or legal significance.

Examples

• The environmental group filed a brief as a friend of the court in the pollution case.
• Several legal scholars acted as friends of the court to provide their expert analysis on the constitutional question.
• The judge considered the arguments presented by the friend of the court before making her final decision.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is most commonly encountered in its Latin form, "amicus curiae" (plural: ). In formal legal writing and reporting, the Latin term is often used.
  • The Supreme Court received numerous amicus curiae briefs from various industry associations.

Variants and Related Words

• Amicus curiae: The direct Latin translation and formal equivalent of "friend of the court."
• Amicus brief: A written legal document submitted by a friend of the court.

Synonyms

• Intervener (specifically when granted permission to participate more fully in the case, though this is a distinct legal role)

Noun

1. an adviser to the court on some matter of law who is not a party to the case; usually someone who wants to influence the outcome of a lawsuit involving matters of wide public interest