What is the nature of an Opening Statement?

An Opening Statement serves as an introductory remark made at the beginning of a trial. Its primary purpose is to outline the case that will be presented, providing a roadmap for the jurors or the presiding judge regarding the points that the attorney intends to prove through evidence and testimonies. This initial presentation helps to set the tone of the trial, framing the issues at hand and giving a preview of key arguments without delving into evidence or witness testimonies, which will be presented later during the trial.

In contrast, conclusive remarks come at the end of a trial as a summary and persuasive conclusion, making them fundamentally different from the role of an Opening Statement. Similarly, summarizations of witness testimonies occur after witnesses have testified and are intended for final arguments or closing statements, not an opening. Legal definitions provided by the judge relate to specific legal concepts pertinent to the trial but do not encapsulate the essence or intent of an Opening Statement.