Herald Price Fahringer says that cases are won or lost in an opening statement.  The Lawline.com faculty member, who has argued before the Supreme Court over fifteen times, adamantly stresses the importance of the opening statements attorneys give at trial.  Fahringer says that the opening line of a case, much like a book, is often what captivates the jury and strongly assists in their formation of an opinion.  In fact, studies show that 80% of jurists make their decision on a case at the close of the opening statements.

The opening line of a book by famous mystery writer P.D. James reads “The whistler’s fourth victim was his youngest…she died because she missed the 9:40 bus from East Haven…”   After reading a line like this, most readers would not put the book down.  And as Mr. Fahringer illustrates, attorneys must employ similar techniques when addressing the jury.   The words that an attorney uses are critical in making the jury intrigued, but furthermore, influenced by the argument he or she makes.

To receive some tips from Mr. Fahringer on how to deliver opening statements watch the video below. 

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