Rule 6.06 Brief of Amicus Curiae

An "amicus curiae" is someone who is not part of a case but wants to give the court their opinion or information because the case affects them or a group they represent. This rule explains how someone can file a brief with the court as an outside party.

Before filing anything, the person or group must ask the court for permission. They do this by filing an application and sending a copy to everyone already involved in the case. The court then decides whether to allow the brief. If the court says yes, the amicus brief must be filed at least 30 days before the oral argument date, and copies must go to all parties in the case.

Once the amicus brief is filed, any party in the case has 21 days to respond to it if they want. This gives the parties a chance to address any points raised by the outside group.

Finally, the rule makes clear that the person or group who filed the amicus brief does not get to speak at oral argument. Only the actual parties in the case get that chance. The amicus curiae's role is limited to submitting written information for the court to consider.