Question

Since the lawyers start the case with the opening statement, what is the primary reason they review the facts in the summation at the end? (Select all that apply.) Because they need to remind the jury of the important facts. Because the jury might not remember the opening statement. Because the opening statement cannot include opinion. Because they need to refute each other’s case.

Answer 1

- Because they need to remind the jury of the important facts.

- Because the jury might not remember the opening statement.

- Because the opening statement cannot include opinion.

Explanation: An opening statement is the most important point in a trial and it provides an attorney with an opportunity to engage with the jury about their case. An opening statement should always include an introduction; a body, which includes a story and a discussion of disputes and weaknesses; and a conclusion.

The purpose of opening statements by each side is to tell jurors something about the case they will be hearing. The opening statements must be confined to facts that will be proved by the evidence, and cannot be argumentative. The trial begins with the opening statement of the party with the burden of proof.