Friend

Compare Ami; Amicus. One favorably disposed to another person. Friend of the cotirt. A disinterested by-stander who furnishes information to the judge trying a cause, or to a court, on a matter of law or fact of which notice may be taken without proof. Usually, a member of the bar of the court. ' See Amicus, Curiae.

Next friend

One who acts for another who is not sui juris: a representative for the special office of carrying on a suit in court. An infant sues by his "next friend," and defends by his guardian ad litem. Similarly, a married woman, who has an interest which conflicts with the interest of her husband, may sue him by her " next friend " — any acquaintance. The next friend may be held for the costs of unsuccessful litigation; and he may be required to file his authority to appear. ^