The courts
brief
The written argument a party files, setting out the facts, the law, and why the court should rule its way. The main vehicle of appellate persuasion.
In full
Appellate briefs are strictly limited in length and format and must cite the record for every factual claim. The opening brief frames the issues, the response answers, and a reply closes. An amicus brief comes from a non-party with an interest in the outcome. Briefs are public documents and are usually the clearest statement of each side's actual position.
Where to go next
Keep going
Browse every term in the glossary, or see the vocabulary in motion in the How government works walkthroughs.
A plain-language explanation for civic education, not legal advice. When in doubt, the official source named above controls.