opening statement
noun
: a statement to the jury by trial counsel before the presentation of evidence that usually explains the nature of the case, the factual matters to be proven, and the evidence to be presented and that summarizes the arguments to be made
also
: a similar statement made to the presiding authority (as an arbitrator) at a nonjudicial or quasi-judicial hearing (as an arbitration hearing)
Dictionary Entries Near opening statement
Cite this Entry
“Opening statement.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/opening%20statement. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share