Crafting Effective Opening and Closing Statements in Federal Criminal Cases

Join us for a discussion by an experienced trial lawyer of the effective use of powerful opening statements and summations in federal criminal cases.

As any trial attorney knows, opening and closing statements can make or break your case. This is particularly true in a criminal case, where the stakes are especially high. In this program, criminal defense attorney Benjamin Brafman will walk through the steps of what makes a strong opening or closing statement, including what content it should contain and strategies for delivery. Plus, learn when to begin crafting your opening and summation and what tactics you can employ for a successful outcome.

Learning Objectives:

1. Craft effective opening and closing statements in federal criminal cases
2. Discuss tactics for effective delivery
3. Develop strategies for countering your adversary's opening or summation
4. Gain an overview of what information openings and summations should include