Greek and Latin - DDT's new feature

By Vijay Kumar

Today’s phrase: Amicus curiae

A "friend of the court". When an important or difficult point is being argued but one part of the argument is inadequately represented (perhaps because a party is not interested in arguing it, or does not have the resources to argue it properly), the Court may appoint an Amicus curiae, to ensure that that part of the argument is sufficiently explored and is fully argued independently of the party upon whom the burden of that argument would ordinarily fall. One, who informs the court when a judge is doubtful or mistaken in a matter of law.