They take jurors from the realm of the outside observer to that of an actor in the event being recreated by describing the events as seen through the client's eyes. This shift in focus enables jurors to have greater empathy for the client. Obviously, jurors cannot be asked to put themselves in the party's shoes. However, jurors will be placed in those shoes by an opening statement that effectively walks them through the case. Fifth , persuasive opening statements do not ignore problem areas in the client's case.
Damaging evidence is anticipated and discussed.
The sting of this evidence is removed by portraying it in the best light. Not only is the impact of the evidence attenuated, but the attorney is viewed as being more open and honest by jurors. Sixth , effective opening statements call into question the credibility of critical opposing witnesses, where possible. Knowing in advance that witnesses have credibility problems in their testimony strengthens the listener's resistance to persuasion by those witnesses, thus reducing their effectiveness. Seventh , good opening statements take advantage of the fact that jurors must understand key legal standards and terms before they view the case in order properly to integrate the information.