[CT] Chapter 12: Closing Arguments

Question 1

The closing argument…?

Answer 1

Highlights the strength of your case and minimizes the weakness in your case.

Question 2

When does the defense attorney presents his or her closing argument?

Answer 2

The defense attorney presents his or her closing argument BEFORE the prosecution.

Question 3

What are the six major parts of the closing argument?

Answer 3

1) introduction
2) summary of the case
3) summary of the evidence
4) basis of guilt/non-guilt
5) corroboration
6) conclusion

Question 4

[closing arguments]
The introduction includes…

Answer 4

The attorney thanking the judge and jury for their time and patience.

Question 5

[closing arguments]
The summary of the case includes…

Answer 5

The attorney creating a mental picture of the parties and briefly highlighting what the case is about.

Question 6

[closing arguments]
Summary of evidence includes…

Answer 6

Summary of evidence is concise, organized description of the events that took place, as established previously by the witnesses and other forms of proof during the direct and cross examination.

Question 7

[closing arguments]
Basis of guilt/non guilt includes…

Answer 7

Legal argument, explaining why the law requires a judge to rule in your clients favor. It should state the fact, presented lead to a verdict in your clients favor, based on the particular legal theory.

Question 8

[closing arguments] Corroboration includes…

Answer 8

1) client’s testimony
2) other witnesses testimony
3) exhibits in evidence
4) common sense
5) human nature

Question 9

[closing arguments] Conclusion includes…

Answer 9

The conclusion should smoothly and effectively sum up your position, as well as state the results you are seeking.