1. By Kayla Sawyer, Rachel Copeland, and Crista Busche
Opening statements
By Kayla Sawyer, Rachel Copeland, and Crista Busche

2. Key points Structure the story logically Keep the story interesting
Tell the complete story, but omit needless detail and clutter
Make the story persuasive and not just interesting

3. To make an Interesting story
Focus on the human interest aspects of the conflict and look for themes that go beyond the particular dispute such as the triumph of good over evil or the destructive power of greed
Emphasize details to create suspense or trama and to provide insights into the case
Use visual aids- exhibits, charts, timelines, lists, and the like- to inhance understanding and retention of key points
Keep language active and understandable

4. Effective tools for successful statements
No wind-up, no throat clearing
Use pictures, lists, timelines, and exhibits
Avoid unnecessary clutter and detail
Avoid promising too much
Never waive or reserve the opening
No scripts, no podium, no reading
Keep the opening short

5. Argumentative tools They may explain or present their proof
They must be able to identify a competent witness or exhibit or support of each statement made
They must avoid adopting an “argumentative” tone
They must not use any rhetorical devices

6. To defend for suspenseful arguments
State what evidence will be presented
Outline the theory of the case
Inform the jury of the nature of what counsel expects evidence to be.
Apprise the Trier of fact of what the state or defense expects to prove
Explain the case to the jury

7. The Don’ts… Use the podium (unless the judge requires it)
Read or otherwise rely on notes
Memorize
Pace
Stand still

8. The Do’s…
Stand directly in front of the jury box (unless the judge prohibits it)
Maintain eye contact with the jurors
Learn the opening statement so that the delivery is natural
Move around during the opening, but purposefully
Use gestures and voice modulation and inflection to emphasize points

9. The where’s and what’s
Stand where the best position for delivery of the statement is. Change positions with often intent
Look at the jury and maintain eye contact
Move to places where people you are talking to can see you
Put your hands where it feels natural. The worst thing to do is be stiff and have artificial gestures as If practiced. Just don’t put your hands in your pocket.

10. Citation The Art & Science of Trial Advocacy
by L. Timothy perrin, H. Mitchell Caldwell, Carol A. Chase