Request for Amicus Curiae Appearance
The LACDL Amicus Committee provides amicus assistance on the federal and state levels in those cases that present issues of importance to criminal defendants, criminal defense lawyers, and/or the criminal justice system as a whole in a manner that is consistent with LACDL policy and complements LACDL's public policy advocacy initiatives. Check out our mission here and our beliefs/policies here.
WHAT WE DO
The Amicus Committee reviews requests to file or join amicus briefs in cases with significant impact beyond individual parties. We aim to support litigation that advances the rights of defendants, strengthens the criminal defense bar, and improves the fairness of the criminal justice system. The Committee may draft briefs on behalf of LACDL, join briefs authored by others, or collaborate with partner organizations when doing so furthers our mission.
WHO CAN REQUEST
The Amicus Committee provides direct support to LACDL members and their cases. They occasionally submit briefs in support of non-members and their cases when they present issues of significance to LACDL’s members critical to the defense community.
WHAT CASES WE TAKE
We prioritize cases with:
- Broad significance to the criminal defense community or systemic issues
- Clear potential to shape law or policy affecting defendants statewide or nationwide
- Procedural posture ensuring the court will consider the brief (e.g., granted writs, cases set for briefing and argument, or appeals.
We generally avoid cases involving only individual outcomes, where our involvement could unnecessarily raise the profile of a likely favorable result, or where procedural posture makes a meaningful contribution unlikely.
HOW THE PROCESS WORKS
- Submit a request using our online form. You may send supplemental info to [email protected] (use Amicus Request in subject line).
- The Amicus Committee circulates the request and materials to the full committee for review and vote.
- Committee members will consider the timing, subject matter, authorship, or other issues.
- If approved, we will identify volunteer drafters and move forward with preparing and filing the brief.
REQUEST AMICUS SUPPORT'
Submit a request online. The Committee will review and follow-up with you.
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AMICUS COMMITTEE
The Amicus Committee is chaired by Lee Harville, E. King Alexander & Chris Murell. If you are interested in contributing to this vital work, sign up here.
