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Opening Statements – Closing Arguments: A Trial Consultant Speaks Directly to Attorneys
 
ABOUT THE BOOK
To do well in court, you must be a master of persuasive communication. But what is truly effective in persuading judges and juries in the courtroom? This handbook provides many answers to that question. It summarizes applicable research in communication and social psychology and gives sound advice on content, structure and presentation of opening statements and closing arguments designed to take advantage of primacy and recency effects. The author shares his years of experience working side by side with legal counsel in a variety of cases as a legal communications consultant to help attorneys – plaintiff lawyers, prosecutors, defense counsel – to be more effective and persuasive in the courtroom. An “easy read” of useful and concrete suggestions, the practices recommended in this handbook can be put to immediate use by trial attorneys.
 
 
WHY BUY THIS BOOK?
It is easy to dismiss the psychological and motivational dimensions of your trial, and your adversaries will gain an important advantage over you if you do. But in order for you to persuade (cause an attitude shift toward your position), you must involve your audience in attitude change. Instilling attitude change begins at the earliest points of trial and doesn’t end until the deliberation doors are closed. There is no recess from persuasion during a trial – it is an ongoing process. This book focuses on two key aspects of juror persuasion -- opening statements and closing arguments.
 
WHAT DOES THIS BOOK COVER?
The book help trials attorneys to:
Develop effective trial themes and storylines
Construct more powerful and persuasive opening statements
Use presentation techniques to enhance persuasion
Understand the boundaries for closing arguments
Take advantage of the recency effect in closing arguments
Use emotional appeals effectively without going overboard
Focus on compelling language and delivery
 
WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT THE BOOK
“Although originally published in 1993, Dr. Matlon’s teachings are as relevant today as they were over two decades ago. His recommendations are timeless.”
 
“Masterful! Matlon blends academic research and professional experience to teach us how to effectively craft and deliver opening statements and closing arguments. His lessons are a gift for lawyers who seek to improve their advocacy.”
 
“Ron Matlon tells lawyers what it means to communicate with a jury and how to do it. His book is a wealth of helpful ideas. Every lawyer should read it before going to trial.”
 
“If you want to deliver a good opening, don’t bother to read this book. However, if you want to deliver a great opening based on sound, trial-tested advice from one of the profession’s originators, read this book. Then read it again. Ron Matlon’s advice is directly on point!”
 
“Lawyers who believe the evidence is the story don’t understand the critical nature of how they open and close the case. Matlon’s focus on theme, structure, and delivery hit the mark on what it takes to pull together what witnesses individually cannot accomplish. Matlon takes it from big picture goals down to the selection of words.”
 
“Ron Matlon’s second edition is an essential text for the novice as well as the experienced advocate. The novice advocate will quickly benefit from Matlon’s clear and practical advice. The experienced advocate will benefit from use of the end-of-chapter recommendations as a checklist to tighten up and polish current practices.”
 
“Ron Matlon’s advice is practical and easy to apply. By reading his book and using his insight and research, you will be more credible and persuasive – a better advocate.”