The Amicus Brief - 4th Edition by Reagan William Simpson & Mary R Vasaly (Paperback)

About the Book

This incisive publication provides guidance on writing and understanding amicus briefs, with practical suggestions on all aspects of the amicus practice.

Book Synopsis

The number of amicus briefs has increased dramatically over the years, filed not only with the Supreme Court but also with regularity in federal courts of appeals, state supreme courts, and state intermediate appellate courts. This updated edition of The Amicus Brief answers these questions, among others:

• What are the functions of an amicus brief?
• When and how do you seek amicus support?
• How do you write an effective amicus brief?
• How do you respond to an amicus brief?
• Can an amicus curiae participate in oral argument?
• What are the ethical considerations in amicus practice?

You'll find practical suggestions on all aspects of the amicus practice and numerous examples of well-crafted briefs. Topics in the book range from how frequently are amicus briefs filed and who files and why, to how to file and respond to an amicus brief.

About the Author

Reagan W. Simpson is a partner in the Houston, Texas law firm of Yetter Coleman LLP, a litigation boutique, where he has an appellate and a trial practice. After graduating from the University of Texas School of Law, he served as a law clerk to the late Thomas Gibbs Gee, Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.Mary Vasaly is a state trial court judge sitting in Hennepin County, Minnesota.Before her appointment to the bench, she practiced law for more than 25 years with Maslon LLP, where she was a partner in the litigation group.