What is the role of opening statements in a trial?

Opening statements play a critical role in a trial by giving each party the opportunity to summarize the key points of their case and outline what they intend to prove. This is the time when attorneys present an overview of their arguments, highlight the evidence they plan to introduce, and set the stage for the trial. The purpose is to inform the jury about the facts they will hear and the legal context of the case, helping jurors understand the respective positions of both sides from the outset.

This summary not only prepares the jury for the evidence they will hear but also helps them to frame the facts in relation to the law as the trial progresses. It is essential for establishing a narrative that the jury will follow throughout the proceedings, ultimately assisting them in making informed decisions as the case unfolds.