What is the main function of opening statements in a trial?

Opening statements serve as a foundational component of a trial, designed to offer a preview of the case to the judge and jury. The main function of these statements is to outline the facts that will be presented, giving the audience a context for the evidence and arguments that will follow. This is essential for setting the stage and helping jurors understand the narrative that each party will support throughout the trial.

By introducing the facts and summarizing the key points that will be elaborated upon with witness testimony and evidence, opening statements help establish the framework for the case. This preparatory overview can significantly influence how jurors perceive the evidence and the arguments made as the trial progresses.

It is important to note that opening statements are not the venue for presenting actual evidence or delivering a verdict; rather, they function exclusively as an introduction to the case.