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Civil procedure

opening statement

An attorney’s opening statement to the jury (or judge in a bench trial) is not evidence, and is intended to be a forceful and persuasive summary of the case.

In Oklahoma, as in other jurisdictions, an attorney's opening statement to the jury, or to the judge in a bench trial, is not considered evidence. Instead, it serves as an overview of the case from the attorney's perspective. The purpose of the opening statement is to outline the facts that the attorney intends to prove through the presentation of evidence during the trial. It is designed to be a clear and persuasive narrative that sets the stage for the evidence that will follow. The attorney is not allowed to argue the case during the opening statement but can highlight the key points that support their client's position. The jury or judge is instructed to base their verdict solely on the evidence presented during the trial, not on the opening statements or closing arguments.

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Civil procedure

opening statement

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Oklahoma State Code

Civil procedure

opening statement

Oklahoma State Code

Articles