The Amicus Curiae Briefs Committee does not have committee members. The work of the Committee is performed by its two Co-Chairs. We process all requests for Litigation Section sponsorship of applications to the ABA Standing Committee on Amicus Curiae Briefs. There must be ABA policy on the issue raised in the case. Generally, the ABA requires that the brief be submitted to the highest court, usually the United States Supreme Court and after certiorari has been granted.

Procedure

When a request is received, it is first reviewed by the Committee Co-Chairs. If they conclude that the subject matter warrants consideration, they will forward it to other Section of Litigation Committees who have an interest in the subject matter. If comments are favorable, the Amicus Curiae Briefs Committee Co-Chairs will make a recommendation and/or presentation to the Council. A majority vote by the Council is necessary to authorize submission of the application to the ABA Standing Committee on Amicus Curiae Briefs.

The Section of Litigation also will co-sponsor or support applications of other ABA entities, such as the Death Penalty Representation Project, the Criminal Justice Section and the Section for Individual Rights and Responsibilities.

If you would like the Section of Litigation to consider submitting an application and amicus curiae brief to the ABA Standing Committee on Amicus Curiae Briefs, or if you are interested in volunteering to write an amicus brief, please contact us.