FAC seeks to strengthen and defend governmental transparency and the First Amendment. One way we do that is by filing briefs or letters in selected cases as amicus curiae, or “friend of the court.” In doing so, FAC is able to offer the important perspective and expertise of an advocacy organization dedicated to advancing and protecting free speech, a free press and public participation in civic affairs. FAC prioritizes cases involving California sunshine laws, including the California Public Records Act and the Ralph M. Brown Act, along with cases affecting freedom of expression and newsgathering rights. To submit a request for amicus support in a case, please contact legal [at] firstamendmentcoalition.org.
FAC urges the California Supreme Court to grant review in an important case over public access to search warrant materials.
The court should grant review and transfer the case back to the Third District Court of Appeal for a reasoned decision on an issue of first impression
The California Supreme Court should ensure public access to arrest information.
Amicus brief explains free-speech implications in asset forfeiture action
In amicus brief, FAC urges California appeal court to preserve anti-SLAPP protections in case of animal-rights organization.
FAC files proposed amicus brief in case challenging Fresno ordinance UPDATE: On May 24, 2022, U.S. District Judge Dale Drozd granted the plaintiffs motion for a preliminary injunction blocking the city’s enforcement of the problematic portion of the ordinance, citing First Amendment concerns. Read the order. Case: Martinez et al.
From the archives: Read past year digests of amicus curiae briefs FAC supported.
FAC has joined, or agreed to join, a number of amicus briefs since December 2016. FAC Joined Amicus Briefs Rand v. City of Carson—Amicus brief to the California Supreme Court urging a broader interpretation of the “public interest” component of California’s anti-SLAPP statute. At least two competing standards have arisen under California law regarding what constitutes “public interest” — one far too narrow, and the other more broad. The amicus brief joined by FAC urges the high court to disapprove the former and adopt the latter. Dual Diagnostic Treatment Center v. Buschel—Amicus letter to the California Supreme Court urging that