Become an ‘Amicus Curiae’ by joining the Supreme Court Historical Society
Florida lawyers are being asked to become an “Amicus Curiae” by joining a unique organization: the Florida Supreme Court Historical Society.
The membership appeal comes as Florida Bar members complete their 2023-34 fee statement which includes a section for voluntary contributions.
“Why do we want you to be a Friend of the Court? Membership in the Historical Society allows you to be part of unique opportunities to honor our court and its rich history,” said President Scott Rost of Orlando. “Equally important, your tax-deductible membership contribution helps expand public awareness and understanding of the judicial branch and its role in our system of government.”
Over the past year, the Historical Society shined a spotlight on court proceedings during the recent national college admissions scandal, opened an online gift shop, and received archival documents and photos never publicly displayed.
- Guest speakers at this year’s “A Supreme Evening” were Melissa Korn and Jennifer Levitz, of The Wall Street Journal, who co-authored “UNACCEPTABLE: Privilege, Deceit & the Making of the College Admissions Scandal” about the most extensive scam of its type ever prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice.
- Specially curated items with the Florida Supreme Court seal on sale at FlCourtGifts.org are now available to support funding for outreach and public education programs. Keepsakes currently include rosewood pen sets, executive metal pens, umbrellas, presentation portfolios, coffee mugs, insulated tumblers, glassware, coasters, and rubber gavel stress relievers.
- Acquisitions in 2022-23 include correspondence from the 1930s written by Florida Supreme Court justices and Florida’s attorney general and secretary of state, and the donation of documents and photos chronicling the late 60s and early 70s at the court plus documents from the 17th century that were to be discarded.
The Historical Society will also help celebrate another historic milestone for the state’s highest court with the 75th anniversary of the building at 500 West Duval Street in Tallahassee.
“Florida Bar members’ support is vital to the work of the Historical Society and there’s an easy way to renew or join: on your Florida Bar Fee Statement, go to the Voluntary Contributions section and select a contribution level,” Rost said.
To learn more about projects and for ways to become involved, visit FlCourtHistory.org and follow the Historical Society on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
