Closing argument

A closing argument, summation, or summing up is the concluding statement of each party's counsel reiterating the important arguments for the trier of fact, often the jury, in a court case. A closing argument occurs after the presentation of evidence. A closing argument may not contain any new information and may only use evidence introduced at trial. It is not customary to raise objections during closing arguments, except for egregious behavior. However, such objections, when made, can prove critical later in order to preserve appellate issues.

In the United States, the plaintiff is generally entitled to open the argument. The defendant usually goes second. The plaintiff or prosecution is usually then permitted a final rebuttal argument. In some jurisdictions, however, this form is condensed, and the prosecution or plaintiff goes second, after the defense, with no rebuttals. Either party may waive their opportunity to present a closing argument.

During closing arguments, counsel may not (among other restrictions) vouch for the credibility of witnesses, indicate their personal opinions of the case, comment on the absence of evidence that they themselves have caused to be excluded, or attempt to exhort the jury to irrational, emotional behavior.

Closing Argument (horse)

Closing Argument (born April 4, 2002 in Florida) is a retired Thoroughbred racehorse. The son of Successful Appeal won the 2005 Holy Bull Stakes and finished third in the Blue Grass Stakes before competing in the Kentucky Derby.

Triple Crown races

On May 7, 2005, trainer Kiaran McLaughlin ran Closing Argument in the Kentucky Derby. With jockey Cornelio Velasquez aboard, the colt went off as the longest shot on the board at 72:1 odds. He broke from post 18 and bobbled while drifting out but moved up to sixth right behind the leaders as they passed the grandstand for the first time. Around the first turn, he was pushed out nine wide. Down the backstretch and going into the final turn, he inched up to fourth, making his way closer to the rail. Around that turn, he was in the four path and sprinted into first at the top of the stretch. One hundred yards from the wire, Giacamo closed to beat Closing Argument by a half length. It was less than another half length back to eventual Eclipse Award Champion Afleet Alex in third.