Syracuse University College of Law has introduced the Syracuse Law Amicus Project, a new initiative through which students and faculty will research and write amicus curiae briefs in significant appellate litigation. Under the direction of Professor Todd Berger, Director of Advocacy Programs, and Professor Thomas Leith, Director of the Criminal Defense Clinic, the Project will provide students with firsthand appellate advocacy experience while contributing to the resolution of important legal questions before state and federal appellate courts.
Housed within the College of Law’s clinical program, the Project will draw upon the diverse scholarly and professional expertise of College of Law faculty to develop distinctive legal arguments, connect legal doctrine with broader policy considerations, and offer courts perspectives that might otherwise be overlooked. In doing so, the Project seeks to bridge academic scholarship and appellate advocacy while providing students with meaningful opportunities to participate in the development of the law.
The Project will collaborate with legal practitioners, public interest organizations, and other stakeholders to identify cases in which an amicus curiae brief could make a meaningful contribution. Particular emphasis will be placed on cases involving substantial questions of public policy, unsettled or evolving legal doctrines, and issues of broader societal importance.
The Project welcomes inquiries from attorneys, organizations, and other interested parties who believe an amicus brief could make a meaningful contribution to pending appellate litigation. Those seeking amicus support or wishing to discuss a potential collaboration may contact Professor Todd A. Berger or Professor Thomas Leith.