Crafting Helpful Amicus Filings in the Supreme Court of Illinois Pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 345

Reprinted with permission from the Illinois State Bar Association.

This article discusses the role of amicus curiae briefs in light of the Illinois Supreme Court’s function in the development of Illinois’ jurisprudence. It begins with a discussion of the function of the Supreme Court after the adoption of Article VI of Illinois’ 1970 Constitution. Thereafter, the article discusses the guidance the Supreme Court has provided by rule and commentary regarding the filing of amicus briefs. Finally, suggestions are offered for filing effective amicus briefs in ways the Court may accept.