The Amicus Committee will review cases involving important issues in civil litigation, and will determine whether to submit an amicus curiae brief on behalf of KDC.  A case may be flagged as important at the trial court level, but more often this determination is made once the case is on appeal.  Calls are received from attorneys who are involved in civil cases of importance to defense lawyers or their clients who feel that additional action is required on the matter.

Very tight appellate deadlines must be met with respect to the motion for amicus status and submission of the amicus brief.  The members of the Committee are available to assist where necessary for review of legal research, formulation of the positon of the Committee and of KDC, and drafting of the amicus brief.

If you are a member of KDC and want to learn more about the Amicus Committee, please go to the Members Only section, and click on Amicus Committee - Overview for more information.  If you are aware of a matter that you feel should be considered, please contact Jennifer Langen (859) 394-6200, Bill Orberson (502) 560-9976, or Joey Wright (502) 357-1946 after filling out Form - Amicus Curiae Brief.docx and submitting for consideration.

Amicus Curiae Committee Case Selection Criteria

Upon obtaining approval of the Executive Committee, the KDC Amicus Curiae Committee will file amicus briefs in carefully selected cases that present issues of importance to civil litigation defense lawyers, their clients, and the civil justice system.  

KDC usually files amicus briefs in its name only but will consider joining with other organizations or entities that have common interests in issues involved in the appeal.

Generally, a case is considered eligible for KDC participation if (i) KDC can make a meaningful and original contribution to an appeal by presenting arguments, perspectives, or information that supplements rather than merely duplicates the supported parties’ briefs, or the briefs of other amici curiae; (ii) the case or issues are of significance to civil litigation defense lawyers, their clients, and the civil justice system; and (iii) the positions to be advocated by KDC are consistent with KDC's mission statement and goals.

KDC will consider requests for amicus participation if submitted on the Amicus Request Form at least 45 days before the requested amicus brief is due (except in extenuating circumstances).

(Adopted 9/25/2019)