What are examples of opening statements?

Some examples:

• “This is a case about taking chances.”
• “Mary Jones had a dream and a plan.”
• “Revenge. That’s what this case is all about.”
• “This is also a case about pain. Mr. Johnson’s only companion today is constant pain.”
• “This is a case about police brutality”

How do you write an opening statement?

Opening Statement Checklist

1. State your theme immediately in one sentence.
2. Tell the story of the case without argument.
3. Persuasively order your facts in a sequence that supports your theme.
4. Decide whether to address the bad facts in the opening or not.
5. Do not read your opening statement.
6. Bring an outline, if necessary.

Which opening statement is first?

Generally, the prosecution in a criminal case and plaintiff in a civil case is the first to offer an opening statement, and defendants go second. Defendants are also allowed the option of delaying their opening statement until after the close of the prosecution or plaintiff’s case.

How do you write a good opening statement for a defense?

A strong defense opening statement will do the following:

1. Tell a story.
2. Plant the defense themes.
3. Make concessions only with great caution.
4. Make the defense case concisely.
5. Humanize the defendant.
6. Make no promises about the defendant testifying.
7. Argue the defendant’s case.
8. End on a high note.

What is an effective opening statement?

An effective opening statement can and will persuade the jury. In fact, every effort should be made to persuade the jury during that portion of the trial. There is nothing wrong with this, which can occur within the bounds of ethics and the particular fact situation involved.

What should an opening statement contain?

An opening statement is vital for a successful trial and should include an introduction, the main body comprising all the relevant information and finally a conclusion. The relevant information should also take into consideration, possible disputes and also the weaknesses.

Is this a good opening statement?

State your theme immediately in one sentence.

What is a defense opening statement?

opening statement. n. the explanation by the attorneys for both sides at the beginning of the trial of what will be proved during the trial. The defendant’s attorney may delay the opening statement for the defense until the plaintiff’s evidence has been introduced.