How to Write Opening Statements and Closing Arguments in Mock Trial
Below are the links to the mock trial resources I wrote for the students
that I have coached for 25 years. When mock trial students have difficulty
writing an opening statement it is usually because they're not sure where
to start. It is helpful to understand a bit about the purpose of an opening.
An opening statement is an opportunity to outline the case for the jury,
and to let the jury know what to expect. It is not an opportunity to argue
your case.
It is important to keep in mind that the people on the jury know little about a case prior to opening statements. This is by design. Judges have to pick jurors that don't know anything about a case – that way the jurors can be impartial. So an opening is just about letting the jury know what the case is about, and to advise them what testimony they may hear and what the expected evidence is. An opening provide a road map or an overview to help the jurors follow along and to provide context to what they are going to see and hear. You should also use this opportunity to introduce the theme or themes of your case. Here are several examples showing how an opening statement can be formulated. Remember that every court case is different. Also there is nothing in the law that requires a particular format.
Keep in mind that it is best not to write out an opening or closing and simply read it to the jury. You will need to write out an outline and practice delivering it without notes if possible.
More Info:
Sample Mock Trial Closing Arguments on burglary, assault and homicide.
HOW TO WRITE A DEFENSE CLOSING ARGUMENT FOR MOCK TRIAL
HOW TO WRITE A PROSECUTION OPENING STATEMENT FOR MOCK TRIAL