How do criminal defense attorneys present closing arguments in court?

In a criminal defense case in Florida, closing arguments are the attorney’s opportunity to present the summation of the evidence and their legal strategy to the judge or jury. Closing arguments are the last statements made to the court before it deliberates a verdict and thus are used to appeal to the emotions of the jury. The defense attorney will begin by reviewing the evidence presented and emphasizing the facts that support their client’s innocence. They may point out inconsistencies in the prosecution’s arguments or inconsistencies in the testimony of witnesses. They will focus on any holes in the prosecution’s case, outlining why they lack a solid basis for conviction. The attorney will then explain the legal theory of the defense, and how the evidence fits within it. The defense attorney then paints a picture of their client as a sympathetic figure, one who is a victim of the circumstances of the case. They will emphasize the good qualities of their client and their positive contributions to the community. The attorney will also discuss the consequences their client faces if found guilty. Closing arguments are a powerful way for defense attorneys to persuade the jury to find in favor of their client. The goal is to draw attention to any mitigating factors that make their client worthy of leniency, while also poking holes in the prosecution’s case. With a strong set of closing arguments, defense attorneys can help improve the odds for their clients in the courtroom.

How do criminal defense attorneys present closing arguments in court?

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