MODEL COPY:
OPENING STATEMENT TO THE JURY BY THE DEFENSE
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN OF THE JURY: “We, the Defense, wish to state
right at the beginning of this trial that the Prosecution has mistakenly charged the
defendant with causing the death of Patti Collins. The defendant did not cause her
death! Tragic as it was, her death was an unfortunate accident that no one could
have reasonably predicted, or could have controlled. It grew out of a set of
circumstances that were beyond understanding or control of any one person, except
the victim, herself.
We wish to remind the Jury at the beginning of this trial that our client is innocent
of these charges and must remain innocent—unless and until he is proven guilty to a
specific charge beyond a reasonable doubt. It is not our job to prove his innocence
to these charges. He already has that position and must remain innocent until
proven otherwise.
We are prepared to show that the defendant had no criminal motive in allowing a
group of his young friends to have a party at his house. He was not informed as to
the names of his guests, or to their ages, nor was he aware of any illegal actions that
may have taken place. He gave no consent, nor did he purchase illegal items for
consumption at his residence for any one, adults or minors. We contend that he
behaved properly and reasonably, and although he may have been deceived in
regard to the age of certain members, had every reason to believe that the gathering
at his residence was a successful affair—without incident. He had no awareness of
the tragic accident that occurred to one of the younger members before the evening
was over.
Before this trial is over, and after all of the facts in this case are known, we feel that
you will be convinced that the defendant is innocent of the charges against him.
You will then understand that the death of this young girl was truly an
unfortunately and tragic accident—of her own making! You will be convinced, as I
am, that the defendant is innocent of these charges. “Thank You!”