This lecture will focus on the benefits of framing a case around the defendant’s prefer facts and “strongest” arguments. The lecture will discuss research associated with “counterargument availability” and how structuring the “bad facts” at different stages of an opening statement can lead to more persuasive effects of your case themes. Further, the lecture will discuss the concept of “pre-bunking” and how best to debunk defense theories and themes in opening statement. Ultimately, the goal is to provide attendees suggestions opening structure, argument structure, and delivery of opening statement to leverage the defendant’s best-case-scenario at trial.