Closing Arguments: 10 Keys to a Powerful Summation

An effective closing argument may turn a closely contested trial in your favor. It can move jurors who are on the fence to your side or, more likely, provide jurors in your corner with the ammunition necessary to turn the voting your way during deliberations. Because closing argument is your last chance to talk to the jury and make a positive impression before ceding control to 12 strangers—admittedly a tough task for even the least narcissistic trial lawyer—you must not squander this opportunity. To maximize the effectiveness of your closing argument, consider the following approaches.