The amicus brief : how to write it and use it effectively -- What is an amicus brief? -- The original amicus curiae -- The modern friend -- How frequently are amicus briefs filed? -- How influential are amicus briefs? -- Who files amicus briefs and why? -- When and how to seek amicus support -- How and when to file an amicus brief -- Functions of the amicus brief -- Addressing policy issues -- Providing a more attractive advocate -- Supporting a grant of discretionary review -- Supplementing a party's brief -- Providing a historical perspective -- Providing technical expertise -- Endorsing a party -- Seeking to correct, limit, publish, or "de-publish" an opinion -- How to write an effective amicus brief -- General contents -- The statement of interest -- Issues on appeal -- Consent of parties and leave to file -- Focus on the function of the brief -- Don't forget the case before the court -- Keep the amicus brief short -- Use persuasive case law support -- What courts are most interested in -- Responding to an amicus brief -- The amicus at oral argument : persona non grata -- Ethical considerations -- Facts outside the record -- Who wrote or paid for the amicus brief? -- Conflicts of interest -- Conclusion -- Appendix.