procedureLatin origin
Amicus Curiae
/ah-MEE-kus KYUR-ee-eye/
Friend of the court — a neutral expert who assists the court without being a party to the case.
Full Definition
Amicus curiae (Latin: 'friend of the court') is a person or organisation with no stake in the litigation but with relevant expertise or public interest perspective, appointed by the court to assist in arriving at a correct decision. Unlike an advocate, the amicus has no client.
In Indian Law
Used extensively by the Supreme Court in PILs and complex constitutional matters. In criminal cases, courts appoint an amicus when the accused has no legal representation, ensuring the right to fair trial under Article 21.