How do you end a legal argument?
Asked by: Ms. Pinkie Kovacek PhD | Last update: October 9, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (69 votes)
At the end of your Closing Argument, make a clear “ask”. Tell the jurors what you want them to do and be crystal clear. For example, “We ask you to find Bill Williams, not guilty of this charged crime.” In keeping with a clear “ask”, make sure you explain the Jury Verdict form to the jurors.
What is a good closing statement?
Proper phrasing includes: "The evidence has clearly shown that. "Based on this testimony; there can be no doubt that..." "The prosecution has failed to prove that..." "The defense would have you believe that . . 9. Conclude with an appeal to convict or acquit the defendant.
How do lawyers close an argument?
Understanding the Closing Argument
Simply put, it is our final statement to the jury before they begin their deliberations. This is our opportunity to summarize the case, highlight the strongest evidence, and address any points the opposing counsel has made.
How do you end an argument professionally?
The best way to end an argument is to respond with empathy and asking questions. Ask them to tell you more about why they're upset to hear it from their perspective. Then acknowledging their feelings by saying something like ``I didn't know you felt that way but I can see your point'' can go a long way.
What is an example of a closing argument in court?
An example of a closing argument is the lawyer opening with a statement, "How can my client be in two places at once?". The lawyer could then incorporate the theme of an alibi, arguing that the defendant could not have possibly committed a crime because they weren't even in the country when the crime took place.
How to Write a Closing Argument in Mock Trial ⏤ 3 Steps for Writing Great Closings
What is a good closing remark?
Examples of some good closing remarks include thank yous to workers for attending, confirmations of the following steps, and reminders of follow-up items.
What is the format for a closing argument?
The basic components are: a dynamic beginning; a compelling and accurate factual story consistent with your case theme and theory; an application of the facts to the law; a strong ending that reinforces your case theme/theory; and a clear “ask” (tell the jurors what you want them to do).
What is the best line to end an argument?
“I understand.” These are powerful words. They work because they offer empathy. They stop an argument by changing its direction – trying to understand someone else's point of view isn't an argument.
How do you start a good closing argument?
- Discuss the burden of proof (some put this near the beginning) “This is a civil case and Plaintiff Landry Lopez must prove his case by a preponderance of the evidence.” (Explain briefly and illustrate with hands what a preponderance of the evidence means)
- Restate the theory of the case. ...
- Tell the jury what you want.
How do you end an argument maturely?
- Establish boundaries. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, even during an argument. ...
- Find the real issue. Arguments tend to happen when one partner's wants or needs aren't being met. ...
- Agree to disagree. ...
- Compromise when possible. ...
- Consider it all.
What can you not say in a closing argument?
Don't Get Personal
Do not refer to jurors by name or tell overly personal stories. You will make jurors uncomfortable, and they will lose track of your argument. Stick to your case theme.
Who gets last closing argument in court?
Usually, the prosecution first makes a closing argument, then the defense attorney. The prosecutor, who has the burden of proof, frequently gets the chance to respond to the defense's final argument.
What can you not say in an opening statement?
Prosecutors and defense attorneys generally have considerable latitude in what they're allowed to say in opening statement. That said, they're not allowed to "argue" (argument is saved for closing), nor are they allow to refer to inadmissible evidence or facts they don't intend to or can't prove.
How do you write a powerful closing?
- Close with an inspirational quotation. Find a short quote that captures the feeling you want the audience to have. ...
- Include a call to action. ...
- Tell a story. ...
- Describe the impact of what happens if the audience does what you ask. ...
- Transition to Q+A. ...
- Match the opening sentence.
What is a typical closing statement?
The closing statement typically lists fees in two columns, one detailing the buyer's expenses and one detailing the seller's. The amount the buyer must give the seller has its own entry at the bottom of the document.
What are some examples of a closing statement in a debate?
Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to thank your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government, distinguished panellists and all of you for your participation and valuable contributions. As we conclude our debate today, I wish to highlight some of the key messages from our discussions.
What is an example of a closing argument in law?
We ask you to judge the defendant by his actions, by what he did that night, not by what he said today in the courtroom. His claims today do not match his actions on that day in question. We are a nation of laws, and every one of us must follow those laws.
How do you end an argument effectively?
If you want to end an argument respectfully, stay quiet and let the person vent without interrupting them. Of course you'll want to argue with them or defend yourself or your point of view. But if you want to end the conversation on a positive note, it's best to let them get in the last word.
How to write a closing speech in court?
- Summarising the evidence that has been heard in court.
- Illustrating parts of your case theory with examples from the evidence.
- Attempting to rebut or minimise the impact of the other side's evidence against your case.
How do you shut up in an argument?
- Learn to Understand Your Anger. ...
- Treat the Underlying Issues. ...
- Leave Before You Need To. ...
- Find Something to Laugh At. ...
- Practice Breathing Techniques. ...
- Stop Raising Your Voice.
What is the last word in an argument?
Definition of 'the last word/the final word'
If someone has the last word or the final word in a discussion, argument, or disagreement, they are the one who wins it or who makes the final decision.
What are four things you can say to defuse a situation?
- #1 'Let's take a break and get back to this issue when we've thought about it and cooled down a bit'
- #2 'Help me understand where you're coming from'
- #3 'Thank you for being honest with me'
- #4 'How can I support you? ...
- #5 'What I heard you say is…
What is the golden rule of closing arguments?
A “golden rule” argument is one that, regardless of the nomenclature used, asks the jurors to place themselves in a victim's position. We have repeatedly held that a golden rule argument is improper, and we conclude that the State violated this prohibition in its closing argument.
What is not allowed in closing arguments?
Don't express personal opinion.
You cannot explicitly inject your own credibility or personal opinions into a closing argument. (“I personally believe that there is no doubt as to the defendant's guilt.”). Likewise, you cannot vouch for a witness.
How to make a good argument in court?
Always focus on why your side is right, rather than on why the other side is wrong. When crafting your argument, put yourself in the judges' position. Look for the weaknesses in your argument, anticipate the questions judges might ask, and plan responses that transition to the merits of your position.