Legal Definitions - amy

The term "amy" refers to a friend. In legal contexts, this term is most commonly encountered as part of the Latin phrase amicus curiae, which translates to "friend of the court." An amicus curiae is an individual or organization that is not a direct party to a lawsuit but is permitted by the court to offer information, expertise, or insight that has a bearing on the issues in the case. Their role is to assist the court by providing additional perspectives or specialized knowledge.

• Example 1: A national medical association, concerned about the potential impact of a new healthcare law, submits a detailed brief to the Supreme Court in a case challenging the law's constitutionality. The association is not directly involved in the lawsuit but wants to provide the justices with expert medical and public health data.

  In this scenario, the medical association acts as an "amy" or "friend of the court" (amicus curiae). They are not suing or being sued, but they are offering their specialized knowledge and perspective to assist the court in making an informed decision, demonstrating the supportive and advisory role implied by the term.

• Example 2: During a local zoning board hearing regarding a proposed commercial development, a long-time resident who is not a direct party to the dispute, but has extensive historical knowledge of the neighborhood's character and previous development patterns, is allowed to speak and present relevant photographs.

  Here, the resident serves as an "amy" in a less formal capacity. While not a formal amicus curiae in a court of law, their role is that of a supportive friend or advisor to the board, providing helpful context and information to aid in the decision-making process, much like a "friend" would.

• Example 3: In a family court proceeding involving a child's welfare, a school counselor who has worked closely with the child for years, but is not a party to the custody dispute, is invited by the judge to provide an objective assessment of the child's emotional state and academic performance.

  The school counselor functions as an "amy" by offering valuable, impartial insights to the court. They are not advocating for either parent but are providing information from their professional relationship with the child to help the judge make the best decision for the child's well-being, embodying the supportive role of a "friend" to the court.