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Amicus curiae

Term
General
Literal meaningFriend of the court
Pronunciationah-MEE-kus KYOO-ree-eye

A person who is not a party to the case but who is asked by the court to help it with information or argument.

Example

In a complex environmental case, the Supreme Court appoints a senior advocate as amicus curiae to assist it.

Exceptions / limits

An amicus curiae assists the court and does not represent a party.

Exam tip

Asked as a short note on the role of an amicus curiae.

Memory trick

The court's helpful friend.

Key takeaway

An amicus curiae helps the court and is not a party.

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