What is the role of an amicus curiae in an appellate court?

An amicus curiae is a Latin term meaning “friend of the court” and is often used to refer to a third-party individual or organization that is not directly involved in a case, but that wishes to provide additional information to the court. In the context of appellate law in Kansas, an amicus curiae provides objective, independent opinions and additional legal arguments to the court beyond the ones presented by the parties. An amicus curiae is usually requested to provide an opinion on the legal importance of the case or to provide expert knowledge on the facts. For example, if a complicated issue related to a specific law or policy is being litigated, an amicus curiae can provide information to the court that neither party can provide. The court may also rely upon an amicus for additional legal argument related to the laws in question. In Kansas, an individual or organization may be allowed to become an amicus curiae by filing a motion with the appellate court and receiving approval from the court. Once admitted, the amicus will usually have access to the case record, including relevant documents and arguments from both parties. Ultimately, an amicus curiae plays an important role in appellate law in Kansas. By providing an outside, unbiased opinion to the court, an amicus curiae can provide the court with additional information that may be helpful in determining the case.

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