NAAG provides a growing library of on-demand resources*, including courses, archived podcasts, and more, designed to deliver practical, high-quality training for the attorney general community.

Our on-demand courses include recordings of prior programs as well as purpose-built learning experiences covering a wide range of topics relevant to attorney general community and beyond. On-demand courses are available to both members and non-members, with certain offerings eligible for continuing legal education (CLE)** credit depending on the course and jurisdiction.

Questions? Please email support@naag.org.

 

Course image
Opening Statements & Closing Arguments
Audience
Members Only

Topic(s)
Skills

CLE Status
Ineligible

Original Production
06/03/2026

Duration
1 hr 16 min

Cost
Members
Included in Membership

Course Description

This course focuses on the critical skills necessary for delivering compelling opening statements and closing arguments in legal proceedings. Participants will learn the essential elements that make an opening statement effective, including the importance of establishing a clear theme and engaging the jury from the outset. The course will also address common mistakes made in closing arguments, providing strategies to avoid these pitfalls and enhance overall persuasiveness. Through demonstrations of both ineffective and effective statements, attendees will gain insights into the art of storytelling in the courtroom, as well as practical tips for capturing and maintaining juror attention. Interactive elements, including polls and Q&A sessions, will ensure that participants can apply what they learn in real-time, fostering a collaborative learning environment aimed at improving litigation skills.

Course Objectives
  • Understand the key components of effective opening statements.
  • Identify common pitfalls in closing arguments and how to avoid them.
  • Learn techniques for engaging jurors during presentations.
  • Develop skills for crafting persuasive narratives in legal arguments.
  • Practice delivering opening and closing statements with feedback.
Presenter(s)
TJ Mathis, Jennifer Kim

*  Some of our resrouces, including on-demand courses, require you to log in or create an account to register and/or access the content.. If you do not already have an account, you will be prompted to create one.
** Before registering for any CLE-eligible course, participants should verify that their jurisdiction permits on-demand and/or self-study CLE, as requirements vary by state and territory.