The term “closing argument” is used to refer to the final presentation of a party or its legal representative in a trial, at the end of the evidentiary stage. The closing argument of a party is intended to summarize the evidence presented during the trial, synthesize the relevant law governing the case, and explain why the court should decide in the favor of that party. The closing argument is thus an important tool for informing the court’s judgment.
According to legal standard, the closing argument should be based solely on facts and evidence that have already been introduced in the trial. Parties are not allowed to draw any new inferences or introduce evidence outside of the scope of the case. This is why the closing argument is often considered to be the most important opportunity for the party to make a compelling argument to the court. It is the final chance to persuade the jury or judge that the facts in the case support its argument and claims.
Using Examples to Make Connections in Closing Argument
The best way to make your closing argument persuasive and concrete is to use examples that demonstrate how the facts of the case relate to the law. For example, if you are arguing that a party should be held liable for negligence because of a lack of reasonable care, you might reference a specific instance where the party misrepresented information or failed to act in a timely manner. This kind of concrete example makes it easier for a judge or jury to understand your argument, and allows you to provide a more substantive explanation of how the law applies to the circumstances of the case.
Understanding the Role of a Closing Argument
The closing argument can be a powerful tool for making a case. It can also be a tricky task, especially when juggling a complex set of facts and legal arguments. When deciding how to present your closing argument, it’s important to keep in mind the role of the closing argument: to review, synthesize, and effectively communicate the legal and factual arguments in support of your claim. When done successfully, the closing argument can be crucial in helping the court to reach a just outcome.