Amicus Curiae Brief Template

Cover Page

• Court caption, case number, parties
• Title: "Brief of [Amicus Organization] as Amicus Curiae in Support of [Party/Neither Party]"
• Counsel information (including local counsel if required)
• Disclosure statement regarding counsel authorship and contributions (Fed. R. App. P. 29(a)(4)(E))

Corporate Disclosure Statement

• Required for corporate amici; list parent corporations and publicly held ownership interests.

Table of Contents and Authorities

• Include all sections and authorities with page references.

Statement of Identity and Interest of Amicus Curiae

• Describe amicus organization, mission, and reason for interest.
• Explain relevance and expertise to assist court.
• Include statement of consent (all parties or motion for leave) per rules.

Summary of Argument

• Provide concise overview of arguments and contribution distinct from parties.

Argument

Organize into sections presenting unique perspective, policy considerations, or legal analysis.

I. [Issue Heading – e.g., "The Statute’s Interpretation Threatens…"]

• Provide legal analysis, supporting authority, and policy context.
• Demonstrate why court should adopt amicus position.

II. [Additional Issue/Policy Consideration]

• Discuss broader implications, empirical data, or comparative law.

III. [Optional Section]

• Offer practical guidance or remedies for court consideration.

Conclusion

• Summarize position and requested disposition (affirm/reverse/other relief).

Certificate of Compliance

• Word count statement per Fed. R. App. P. 29(a)(5) and 32(g)(1).

Certificate of Service

• Describe service method (CM/ECF, mail) and date.

Appendix (if necessary)

• Include relevant statutes, regulations, or supporting materials permitted by rules.

Ensure compliance with applicable appellate rules regarding filing deadlines, consent/motion requirements, and word limits for amicus briefs.