Brady List Academy

This specialized course is designed to instruct Pro Se defendants—individuals representing themselves in legal proceedings—on how to draft and file an amicus curiae brief ("friend of the court") in both criminal and civil contexts. While Pro Se litigants are typically parties to their own case, this course focuses on the strategic use of an amicus brief to support related litigation, contribute to policy questions, or intervene in defense of systemic constitutional principles, such as Brady-Giglio compliance, prosecutorial misconduct, or unlawful government practices that affect broader classes of defendants.

The course demystifies the purpose, form, and procedures for filing amicus briefs, particularly in state appellate courts, federal courts, and post-conviction review forums. It teaches Pro Se litigants how to frame arguments that do not merely advance personal interests, but that articulate public concerns, contribute legal insight, or correct misapplications of law affecting multiple parties.

Topics Covered:

• What Is an Amicus Brief?: Purpose, function, and legal authority under Rule 29 of the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure and applicable state rules.

• When and Where to File: Identifying the appropriate stage of litigation (appeals, certiorari, rehearing) and determining court receptiveness to Pro Se amicus filings.

• Standing and Leave of Court: How to request permission to file as a non-party and properly draft a motion for leave.

• Structure and Content: Detailed breakdown of the required format, including:

  • Interest of the Amicus

  • Summary of Argument

  • Argument (legal basis and authorities)

  • Conclusion and Prayer for Relief

• Legal Writing for Impact: How to cite binding precedent, use legislative history, and incorporate public policy arguments effectively.

• Ethical and Procedural Considerations: Avoiding overreach, duplicative filings, and ensuring compliance with local rules and formatting standards.

Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, Pro Se defendants will be able to:

• Identify appropriate cases in which to file amicus briefs

• Draft well-structured, legally sound briefs in plain or formal legal language

• Submit motions for leave to file in accordance with court requirements

• Enhance public records with constitutional analysis even outside of their own direct litigation

Supplementary Resources:

• Sample briefs filed by civil rights organizations

• Motion for Leave to File Amicus Brief templates

• Filing guides for state and federal appellate courts

• Directory of public cases with known Brady-Giglio issues

A certificate of completion is issued, and submission templates are included for use in active or prospective litigation. Group enrollment options are available for advocacy organizations and civil rights groups seeking to empower impacted communities with self-representation tools.