Legal Definitions - proof brief

A proof brief is a type of legal document used in litigation, specifically in appellate courts. It is a preliminary brief that is reviewed by the court clerk to ensure compliance with applicable rules. Proof briefs are required by local rules of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Once all proof briefs have been accepted in a case, a date is set for filing a final brief, which may only be modified to include joint-appendix references, repagination, or updated citations.

For example, if a party is appealing a lower court's decision, they would submit a proof brief to the appellate court for review. The proof brief would need to comply with the court's rules before a final brief can be filed.