An opening statement in a legal context is a party’s initial address to the court or jury in a trial setting. In essence, it is used to explain the parties’ cases, usually including the facts, and what is expected to be proven in the trial. An effective opening statement is often referred to as the equivalent of a “teaser trailer” for the trial; it should provide the court or jury with a preview of what evidence will be presented during the trial and outline the plaintiff’s desired outcome.
What Does an Opening Statement Look Like?
The length of an opening statement varies based on the case, but it should be succinct. A well-crafted opening statement will concisely explain the basic facts of the case in language that is both straightforward and interesting. A good opening statement should paint a vivid picture of the case for the judge or jury. It must not contain legal arguments and should not state an opinion.
Purpose of an Opening Statement
An opening statement serves two main purposes in a trial. First, it introduces the case to the judge or jury, as it serves as the first opportunity for the plaintiff to make their case known. Secondly, it focuses the jury or judge on the issues of law and fact that both parties will argue about as the trial progresses. By using the opening statement as a “teaser trailer” and following up with evidence and argument during the trial, the party can put forth a comprehensive, holistic plan of action to convince the court or jury of its case.
Final Thoughts
An opening statement in a trial setting is an invaluable tool for any party seeking justice. It should be used to introduce the case in a clear and concise manner and should be reflective of the evidence and argument which will be presented during the trial. With a properly crafted statement, a party stands an excellent chance at winning over the court or jury and achieving their desired outcome.