Which action should be avoided during closing arguments?

• A. outlining the issues in the case
• B. drawing logical inferences and conclusions that favour your theory of the case
• C. stating your personal belief about the witnesses and the case
• D. raising inconsistencies and contradictions apparent in the evidence present by the opposing party

Answer: (C)

In closing arguments you must anchor your points in the record and the applicable law, guiding the trier of fact to understand what the evidence shows. You outline the issues, draw logical inferences from the evidence, and highlight inconsistencies or contradictions in the opposing side’s evidence. What you should avoid is expressing your personal belief about the witnesses or the case. Saying you personally believe a witness or that you “feel” the case is true goes beyond what the evidence supports and can come off as opinion rather than a reasoned argument based on the record. Instead, stick to what the testimony and documents show, explain how they fit together, and point to specific inconsistencies or corroborating details. This keeps the argument persuasive, fair, and grounded in evidence rather than personal belief.