What does the term "amicus curiae" refer to?

The term "amicus curiae" refers to a legal brief filed by an interested party who is not directly involved in the case. These briefs are submitted to provide additional perspectives, expertise, or insights that may assist the court in making its decision. The role of an amicus curiae is to inform the court of relevant information or arguments that might not be fully represented by the main parties involved in the litigation.

This practice is important in complex legal cases where the implications of a ruling could extend beyond the immediate parties. By allowing external parties to weigh in, courts can take a broader range of viewpoints into account, contributing to more informed decisions. Various organizations, advocacy groups, or individuals can participate as amicus curiae, as long as they can demonstrate a legitimate interest or expertise pertinent to the case.