Legal Definitions - trial brief

A trial brief is a written submission by a lawyer, usually just before a trial, that outlines the legal issues before the court and argues one side's position. It is a document prepared by counsel as the basis for arguing a case, consisting of legal and factual arguments and the authorities in support of them.

• During a criminal trial, the defense attorney may submit a trial brief to argue why their client is not guilty.
• In a civil trial, the plaintiff's lawyer may submit a trial brief to argue why their client deserves compensation.

These examples illustrate how a trial brief is used by lawyers to present their arguments and evidence to the court in a clear and organized manner.