A brief is a written legal document filed in a litigation or arbitration dispute resolution proceeding in which a party to the dispute recites the facts and the law applicable to the dispute and explains to the court or arbitrator why the party should prevail in the dispute. Courts often have rules regarding the page limits and format for briefs, as well as the method for filing briefs (usually electronically) and delivery of a copies to other parties to the litigation.

In West Virginia, a brief is an essential legal document used in litigation or arbitration to present a party's arguments, relevant facts, and legal precedents to support their position. The West Virginia Rules of Appellate Procedure, particularly Rule 10 for the Supreme Court of Appeals, outline specific requirements for the content, format, page limits, and filing procedures for briefs. These rules mandate that briefs must be concise, formatted according to the guidelines (including font size and margins), and include specific sections such as a table of contents, statement of the case, assignments of error, and argument. Electronic filing (e-filing) is the standard method for submitting briefs to the court, and parties are also required to serve copies of their briefs to the opposing parties. Local rules of each court may provide additional details on the preparation and submission of briefs, so it is important to consult the local rules for any specific requirements beyond the statewide appellate rules.