Which document outlines the legal arguments presented in court?

The legal brief is the document that outlines the legal arguments presented in court. It serves as a formal written statement that articulates a party's position, including the relevant laws, precedents, and factual evidence that support their case. The purpose of a legal brief is to persuade the judge or court by laying out a structured argument, addressing counterarguments, and referencing legal authorities that bolster the party's claims or defenses.

In contrast, a statute refers to a written law passed by a legislative body and does not present arguments but rather defines legal obligations or rights. Pleadings consist of the formal statements of the parties in a legal dispute, typically including complaints and answers, but they focus on the facts and claims rather than providing an argumentative framework. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath, used as evidence in legal proceedings, but it doesn't convey legal arguments in the same way a brief does. Thus, the legal brief is essential for articulating the reasoning behind a legal position in court.