A closing argument can make or break a case. If it is done well, the jury will more likely be persuaded by your argument and find the defendant guilty. If it is done poorly, the jury may not be convinced by your arguments and may find the defendant not guilty. Include your passion, be persuasive, and use emotion. Powerful closing arguments can change the outcome of a case. Many prominent lawyers consider the closing arguments the most critical part of the trial. Dean has received several accolades and is a founding partner at Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP in Dallas, Texas. Here, Jessica Dean, an experienced attorney, will give tips on preparing a winning closing argument.
- Keep Slides Simple
When preparing your closing argument, you want to ensure that your slides are simple and easy to understand. This is not the time to get creative with your PowerPoint presentation. The jury will likely be tired and not paying attention to anything that is not essential to the case. Stick to black and white text on a plain background. If you use visuals, make sure they are easy to understand. The last thing you want is for the jury to be confused about what they are looking at.
- Maintain Consistency between Opening and Closing Argument
It is important to maintain consistency between your opening and closing arguments. If you made specific promises in your opening argument, make sure you deliver on those promises in your closing. The jury will be looking to see if you followed through on what you said you would do. If new evidence came to light during the trial, make sure to address that in your closing argument. The jury will want to know why this new evidence is essential and how it affects the case. Jessica Dean Attorney advises you not to introduce further information in your closing argument that was not presented during the trial. The jury will likely be confused and may not take your argument seriously.