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Simple English definitions for legal terms
legal brief
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A quick definition of legal brief:
A legal brief is a written document that lawyers use to explain their arguments in a court case. It includes facts, legal arguments, and references to laws and cases that support their position. There are different types of briefs, such as an appeal brief, which is filed when someone wants to challenge a court decision, or a trial brief, which is used to outline the legal issues before a trial. Briefs are important because they help judges understand the arguments of each side and make fair decisions.A more thorough explanation:
A legal brief is a written statement that outlines the legal arguments of a party in a court case, especially on appeal. It is prepared by a lawyer and includes legal and factual arguments, as well as references to authorities that support those arguments.
Examples of legal briefs include:
- Appellate brief: A brief submitted to an appeals court by a party to an appeal pending in a court exercising appellate jurisdiction.
- Amicus brief: A brief, usually at the appellate level, prepared and filed by an amicus curiae with the court's permission.
- Trial brief: Counsel's written submission, usually just before trial, outlining the legal issues before the court and arguing one side's position.
These examples illustrate how a legal brief is used in different stages of a court case, from the trial level to the appellate level. They also show how a legal brief is an essential tool for lawyers to present their arguments and persuade the court to rule in their favor.