Opening Statement Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Opening Statement.

Opening Statement (noun)

An opening statement is the initial explanation that each attorney provides at the beginning of a trial. Primarily addressed to the jury, this statement offers an overview of the case from the perspective of the presenting lawyer. Despite containing details and key facts, it is not evidence and cannot be argued against immediately, as the evidence and arguments will be presented later during the trial. A defense attorney may choose to postpone their opening statement until after the prosecution's presentation.