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Closing Arguments

Learn how to deliver a clear, confident final argument that brings your case together.

What is a Closing Argument?

A closing argument is your final opportunity to speak during a trial, here, you summarize your case and make one final argument. It covers witness testimony, your main themes, any mistakes the opposing team made during trial (ex. A witness messed up testimony or got impeached, an attorney made poor objections), and brings the whole case together.

The most important thing to do during a closing is to take the main point of every direct cross and tie them together. Also, as mentioned above, take advantage of the other team's mistakes, while also focusing on your own successes, to add an extra layer to the closing.

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For example:

“Over the course of this trial, you have heard from the defense that Ms.Bates did not act negligently at any point during the party on August 12th. She was responsible for watching 50 children, and did so to the extent of any reasonable person while also posting proper signage as to the wet floor. You heard from the plaintiff's witness, Ms.Evans that she did not in fact bring a sign to the wet floor, but later, she said that the sign was there. Your honor, this is just one example of the inconsistent testimony brought by the plaintiff today.”​

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What it matters

Closing arguments can have a major impact on the outcome of a trial and get you the extra points you need to win. They also bring your case together! Without a closing, a case likely will be difficult to follow and to deliver a verdict on considering the lengthy and complex testimony.

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A strong closing argument can:

  • Remind the judge of the most important facts

  • Highlight weaknesses in the opposing side’s case

  • Clearly explain why your side is correct

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How to Structure a Closing?

Most strong closing arguments follow a clear structure:

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1.Introduction - Who you are and who you represent

2. Go through the story again with the added testimony, highlighting important facts

3. Charges and burdens of proof

3. Connect the Evidence - Explain how the evidence supports or does not support each burden

4. Point out weaknesses or inconsistencies with the opposing teams argument, evidence, or witnesses

5. Clearly state what you want the judge to decide (verdict)

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What makes a Strong Closing?

A strong closing argument is:

  • Organized

  • Confident

  • Focused on the evidence

Unlike an opening statement, a closing is an argument, it uses the facts to support a case instead of outlining it.

 

​Common Mistakes

  • Introducing new information that wasn’t presented earlier

  • Repeating everything instead of focusing on key points

  • Being unclear or disorganized

  • Speaking too quickly or without confidence

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How to Make Your Argument Stronger

To improve your closing argument:

  • Focus on your strongest points

  • Connect your evidence clearly

  • Speak with confidence

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Practice

  • Watch a closing argument

  • Summarize your examinations into key points and a clear series of events

  • Write a closing using our practice affidavits

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