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39 Am. J. Trial Advoc. 365 (2015-2016)
How to Deliver an Effective Closing Argument

handle is hein.journals/amjtrad39 and id is 381 raw text is: How to Deliver an Effective Closing Argument Chris Zulanast Introduction Closing argument is counsel's last opportunity to present his or her case to the jury. There are countless opinions regarding how to deliver effective closing arguments. However, delivering your closing argument comfortably and with credibility will always be key to effectively communicating your client's case to jurors. Jurors possess a keen sense about the parties and their lawyers by the time the trial reaches closing arguments. Although [a] lawsuit is won during the trial, not at the conclusion of it, this fact does not lessen the importance of an effective closing argument.1 Jurors appreciate concise closing arguments that touch on the main points of the trial.2 After giving and listening to dozens of closing arguments over the years, there are several key concepts that have almost always proven effective. These concepts are not by any means an exhaustive list, but will provide effective guidance in preparation for your next closing argument. Begin Preparation for Closing Argument When the Case Reaches Your Office Effective closing arguments do not develop the day before they are given. Think about your closing argument from the time the case comes into your office and continue to tailor it throughout discovery. While I B.A. (1992), University of Notre Dame; J.D. (1995), Cumberland School of Law. Mr. Zulanas is a partner with Friedman, Dazzio, Zulanas & Bowling, P.C. in Birmingham, Alabama. This Article is based on a presentation by the author at a symposium-The Alabama Trial Attorney: Litigation Lessons from Birmingham's Finest-sponsored by the Cumberland Law Review on November 20, 2015, at Cumberland School ofLaw. James H. Seckinger, Closing Argument, 19 AM. J. TRIAL ADVOC. 51, 51 (1995). 2 Id. at 54 (Pick and choose the points you intend to argue so that you exploit, rather than exhaust, [the jury's] limited attention span.).

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