In litigation where the stakes are high—either in financial terms or because the case is apt to establish a precedent that will significantly impact persons other than the litigants—it is common for one or both of the parties to solicit amicus curiae briefs. From the perspective of the putative amicus who is approached to weigh in on an appeal, participating in this way can be desirable. A well-crafted amicus brief can be a powerful and a cost-effective way to influence the development of the law without the downsides of being an actual party to, or intervenor in, litigation.

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