What is the purpose of a brief in legal proceedings?

The purpose of a brief in legal proceedings is to present legal arguments to the court. This document articulates the rationale for a party's position, citing relevant laws, precedents, and facts that support their legal claims or defenses. A brief serves as a critical tool for lawyers to persuade the judge or jury regarding the merits of their case, and it is often submitted in support of motions, appeals, or during trials.

A brief is distinct from other legal documents such as witness testimonies, which are presented in a different format and context; evidence, which is typically tangible items or testimonies that support the case; and procedural documents, which focus on outlining the steps to be followed in legal processes. Thus, the primary function of a brief is to articulate the legal basis for the argument, making it a vital aspect of legal proceedings.