amici

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Definition

Short for 'amici curiae' or 'friends of the court,' these are non-parties who submit briefs to educate judges on issues they might otherwise misunderstand. Think of them as legal kibitzers with credentials. Organizations love filing these to influence landmark cases without actually being sued, making them the ultimate courtroom sideline commentators.

Example Usage

Several civil rights organizations filed amici briefs supporting the plaintiff's constitutional arguments before the Supreme Court.

Source: Legal terminology, court procedures

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