Amicus Brief Application

How to Apply for Amicus Brief Review

The Amicus Committee, led by Donna Walsh of Myers, Brier & Kelly located in Scranton, identifies potential cases to advance fairness of the criminal defense system. Properly completing an application for amicus curiae support from the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (PACDL) involves several key steps. First, clearly identify the arguments to be raised on appeal, ensuring they align with PACDL’s mission to safeguard the rights of defendants and uphold justice. Next, outline the procedural position of the case, including the court in which the appeal is being heard and any relevant deadlines or procedural history. Emphasize the importance of the case to the criminal defense community, highlighting how the outcome could impact broader legal principles or future cases. Strengthen your application by suggesting complementary arguments that PACDL could raise that are not duplicative of your brief's argument, such as constitutional issues, broader policy implications, or comparative case law, to provide a well-rounded and compelling amicus brief.

Most of the Amicus Committee's efforts are directed toward filings in the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. If you are interested in having the Amicus Committee consider your request to file an amicus brief, then please complete this application and attach the documents outlined on the form to pacdl@pacdl.org. For appropriate consideration, complete the application fully and at least 21 days in advance of the initial brief deadline. 

PACDL urges members to seek an extension from the appeals court. If you are not a PACDL member, please join prior to submitting your application.