NCJ Number
129010
Journal
Law and Human Behavior Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1991) Pages: 1-11
Date Published
1991
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Social scientists have increasingly become involved in the submission of amicus curiae of "friend of the court" briefs in legal cases being decided by State and Federal courts. This increase has triggered considerable debate about the use of briefs to communicate relevant social science research.
Abstract
This article evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of various methods of summarizing social science research for the courts. It also reviews the procedures for submitting briefs developed by the American Psychology-Law Society which, in collaboration with the American Psychological Association, has submitted its first brief in Maryland versus Craig, a case recently decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. 4 notes and 47 references (Author abstract)