marking scheme for speech writing

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Speech writing class-12-[CBSE]-format Examples

speech writing class 12 Speech writing in Class 12 is a crucial skill, enabling students to articulate their thoughts effectively and connect with their audience. It goes beyond mere words on paper; it’s the art of persuasion, inspiration

speech writing class 12

what is speech?

A speech is a formal talk or discourse delivered to an audience to express thought / opinion over a particular subject. matter, it reflects of thoughts and accuracy of tests in a balanced manner. the phrases information used should be contemporary , with accurate date, motivational words and phrases,

Distribution of marks

• Format—-1 mark
• content—4 mark
• Expression-4 marks

further birfucation of expression

(i) grammatical accuracy, appropriate words and spellings–2.5 marks

(ii) coherence and relevance of ideas and style– 2.5 marks

(i) greeting / salutation / addressing the audience

(ii) self introduction (name and designation) and introduction of the topic

(iii) content–

a. facts abut the topic-cause and effects of the issue

b.data and examples / real input

c. conclusion by giving suggestions

(iv) thanks giving to the audience –thank you’

speech writing class 12 point to Remember

• part I– introduction–define the topic
• part II –analyse the topic in terms of issue and its causes, consequences and effects, etc,
• part III–conclusion –suggestions, remedial measures and steps for improvement.
• make value points and develop them into paragraphs maintaining a logical order.
• try to make a rough draft first,
• mind the word limit.

how to begin a speech?

begin with greeting / salutation and by addressing the audience

Honourable principal, teachers and ,my dear friends

welcome to all in this healthy and joyous morning

I—(Name)—–of class XII wish to speak on some very important topic of ————————

good morning to all,

I———-(name)———-present my views on———please listen and try adopting in your life

dear audience

Good morning to all

Honourable principal., teachers, and all my dear friends I am ——(name)——

it is a great honour for me to deliver a speech on the topic————–

Respected principal, teachers, and my dear friends I am —–(name)——

it’s a matter of great privilege for me to deliver a speech on the topic———

how to End / conclude?

therefore in the end, I would like to end my speech by strongly supporting the idea that————

Thanks giving —

thanks all for being so generous to listen to my views so attentively and patiently

speech writing class 12 examples

Example:’1 Delhi’s pollution—-A major concern

Respected principal, teachers and my dear friends

Good morning to all.

I am abinav sharma of class XII A, it’s a matter of great privilege for me to deliver a speech on the topic delhi’s pollution—A major concern

in may, 2014 word health organization declared new delhi as the most polluted city of the world, delhi’s pollution has been e great concern over the year, Environmental problems in delhi are a big threat to delhi’s inhabitants and to the flora and fauna as well . the city suffers from air pollution , caused by road dust and the gases emitted by vehicles and industries . the growth in the number of vehicles in delhi’s is very high and unexpected , more than 1000 new vehicles are coming on the roads of delhi every day. .

another reason for city pollution is it’s industries . there are over 25 industrial areas in delhi’s small scale industries and heavy industries throw 3000 ton pollutants into the air, out of which 13% of air pollution is caused by thermal power plants, most of the small scale industries do not have waste treatment plants, as a result they directly throw their liquid waste into the river yamuna contaminating its water. these industries release toxic elements which cause ground water contamination small, hospitals and private nursing homes, to some extent are also responsible for delhi’s pollution they are mushrooming day by day, small hospitals and private nursing homes do to have arrangements to treat hospital waste and it is thrown in the open air causing air pollution.

there should be a certain policy for afforestation, atmospheric pollution, biomedical waste, domestic refuse and water and sewage treatment. an action plan is needed in order to encourage public participation in environmental problems, odd and even number formula can play an important role curb the pollution from the capital city of india.

Example:2 underage Driving : A Road to Disaster

Respected principal, teachers and my dear friends, A very good morning to all, of you Today I am here to present my views on the topic underage driving is a road to disaster. for school students , it is fun and fashion to zip on a high–powered motor bike to school for their status conscious parents, it is a matter of pride , but little do they realise that it is a tragedy waiting to happen a few days ago, two boys were returning from their classes with another friend on a two-wheeler , they lost control and rammed into a lamp post nearby . the two boys died on the spot, while their friend was batting for life in the hospital.

minors driving to school , youngsters from wealthy families often take out their parents. car for a drive, a visit to any of the popular urban school would reveal that almost 90 percent of the senior students use two–wheeler to commute to school, children of this age are restless, impatient and have a shorter attention courtesy their hormones, they drive fast , rash and honk wildly . their reflexes are not as sharp as the reflexes of the adults, and when required to react, fast they bungle, they are unable to control the speeding vehicles in case of emergencies and it leads to is accidents,

checking of driving license should be done stringently , it’s time for parents, students institution and traffic department to realise that unrestricted under age driving by school students is a road to disaster

Example 3: “The Importance of Environmental Conservation”

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that affects every single one of us – the importance of environmental conservation. We are all witnesses to the devastating consequences of environmental neglect, from climate change to habitat destruction. It’s high time we take this matter seriously and act responsibly.

Our environment is not just a place where we live; it’s our lifeline. The air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat are all intricately connected to the environment. When we harm our environment, we are, in fact, harming ourselves.

Conservation is not merely an option; it’s a necessity. We must reduce our carbon footprint, protect our biodiversity, and preserve our natural resources. Small steps like reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting eco-friendly practices can make a significant difference.

We must also advocate for sustainable policies and practices, hold corporations accountable, and educate the next generation about the importance of environmental conservation. Our collective effort can create a more sustainable and healthier world for all.

In conclusion, it is our moral obligation to protect our environment. Let us pledge to be responsible stewards of our planet, ensuring that it thrives for generations to come. Together, we can make a difference.

Example 4 “The Power of Youth in Shaping the Future”

Dear friends and respected elders,

Today, I want to talk about a force that holds immense potential and can change the course of our future – the power of youth. As young individuals, we have the unique ability to drive change, challenge the status quo, and create a world that reflects our vision.

The youth of today are passionate, innovative, and determined. We have the energy to address critical issues such as education, climate change, and social justice. Our voices matter, and they deserve to be heard. We can influence policies, challenge injustices, and drive movements that make a difference.

But with great power comes great responsibility. To effectively shape the future, we must be informed, engaged, and proactive. We should seek knowledge, participate in civic activities, and lead by example. It’s not enough to be bystanders; we must be changemakers.

Our ability to connect through technology offers a powerful platform for change. We can leverage social media, organize online campaigns, and mobilize like-minded individuals. The world is our oyster, and the possibilities are endless.

In conclusion, the power of youth is a force to be reckoned with. Let us embrace our potential, work together, and be the architects of a brighter future. Our actions today will determine the world we inherit tomorrow.

Example 5 “The Impact of Technology on Society”

In this age of rapid technological advancement, we find ourselves living in a world profoundly influenced by technology. Today, I will discuss the impact of technology on our society, covering both its advantages and challenges. Technology has transformed the way we communicate, work, and live. It has made our lives more convenient, but it has also raised concerns about privacy and the digital divide.

Example 6 “Importance of Education in Shaping a Better Tomorrow”

Education is the cornerstone of personal growth and societal progress. In this speech, I will emphasize the importance of education in shaping a better future. Education empowers individuals, fosters critical thinking, and equips us to face the challenges of the world. It also plays a pivotal role in reducing inequalities and promoting economic development.

Example 7 “Climate Change: The Urgent Need for Environmental Action”

Dear audience,

The pressing issue of climate change is one that demands our immediate attention and action. This speech will focus on the urgent need for environmental action to combat the adverse effects of climate change. We are witnessing rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and melting ice caps. It is imperative that we reduce our carbon footprint, support renewable energy, and advocate for sustainable policies.

Example 8 “ Youth and Leadership: Shaping the Leaders of Tomorrow”

Young minds,

Youth are often described as the leaders of tomorrow, but I firmly believe that we are the leaders of today. In this speech, I will discuss the role of youth in leadership and the potential we possess to bring about positive change. We have fresh perspectives, unwavering enthusiasm, and a desire for a better world. We can create meaningful change by participating in leadership roles, addressing social issues, and fostering a sense of responsibility among our peers.

speech writing class 12 questions for practice

• you are Ravi kishan / Radhika / Head boy / girl of your school. you feel concerned about increasing complaints of bullying in the school . you decided to deliver a speech on his issue in the morning assembly write a speech in 150–200 words on bullying should be stopped
• drains nearby your school are choked due to plastic / polythene bags making water stagnant. As. a result mosquitoes are breeding there. as an alert citizen you decided to make new generation aware. about this issue, write a speech in 150–200 words on hazardous consequences of using plastic polythene bags”

In conclusion, speech writing is a skill that empowers individuals to effectively convey their ideas, inspire change, and connect with an audience. Whether addressing critical global issues or personal experiences, the art of crafting a compelling speech is a valuable tool. By employing persuasive techniques, structuring thoughts coherently, and delivering with confidence, one can leave a lasting impact. Speech writing is not just a class assignment; it’s a means to communicate, inform, and inspire.

2 thoughts on “Speech writing class-12-[CBSE]-format Examples”

you are Ravi kishan / Radhika / Head boy / girl of your school. you feel concerned about increasing complaints of bullying in the school . you decided to deliver a speech on his issue in the morning assembly write a speech in 150–200 words on bullying should be stopped.

(Please answer this question )

me jaldi hi apko is question ka answer dunga PDF bna ke apki mail id par bhej dunga

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Writing to Persuade/Persuasive writing - Writing a speech

Subject: English

Age range: 11-14

Resource type: Worksheet/Activity

Last updated

22 February 2018

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Format of Notice Writing | Article Writing | Speech Writing |

Table of Contents

Format of Notice Writing | Class 9, 10, 11 and 12 |

Given below are the formats of Notice/Letter/Article/Speech/Debate & Invitation. It is mandatory to commemorate all the formats especially of Notice, Invitation, Article, Speech, Debate at the time of board exams. Therefore, we are enclosing the formats of these topics so that you can score better in your upcoming board exams. Notice comes in choice with Classified Advertisement , Invitation and Poster Making .  Let’s go through the definition of Notice along with Format, Marking Scheme and Important Points to remember while writing a notice.

What is notice?

A notice is an announcement or piece of information that is meant for a select group of people. Notices are usually displayed in public places or published in newspapers and magazines. They always contain formal announcements or information, so the tone and style of notices is formal and factual. The language in notices should be simple and formal. Notices are always brief and to the point.

Format of Notice Writing

Important Points to Remember While Writing a Notice

• Put it in a box if asked
• Write the name of Issuing Authority (Institution/Organisation/Company/Society) on the top in the center of the box.
• Write the word Notice
• Write formal date on the left side
• Write Subject/Heading in the center
• Write body of the notice in about 50 words
• End the notice with Signature, Name and Designation
• Do not sign if writing as a head boy or head girl

Marking Scheme of Notice Writing

• Format – 1 Mark (Name of Issuing Authority, Word ‘Notice’, Heading, Date, Writer’s name with Designation)
• Content – 2 Marks
• Expression – 1 Marks

(Grammatical Accuracy, Appropriate Words and Spellings – 0.5 Marks)

(Coherence, Relevance of Ideas and Style – 0.5 Marks)

Format of Report

Important Points to Remember While Writing a Report

• Write the Title/Heading on the top
• Write the name of reporter just below the heading (Given in the Heading)
• Write the name of the place
• Use Past Tense (Both Active and Passive Voice)
• Answer questions like; What, When, Where, How, Who etc.
• Avoid 1st and 2nd person
• Adhere to word limit i.e. 150 words

Marking Scheme of Report Writing

• Format – 1 Mark (Heading and Writer’s Name)
• Content – 4 Marks
• Expression – 5 Marks

(Grammatical Accuracy, Appropriate Words and Spellings – 2.5 Marks)

(Coherence, Relevance of Ideas and Style – 2.5 Marks)

Format of Article Writing

Important Points to Remember While Writing an Article

• Write the name of the writer just below the heading (Given in the Heading)
• Follow the Fluency (Introduction, Causes, Statistics, Consequences, Measures etc)
• Avoid ‘I’ use ‘We’ instead
• Don’t Manipulate with the Statistics (Avoid if not known to)

Marking Scheme of Article Writing

Format of speech/debate.

Important Points to Remember While Writing a Speech or Debate

• Begin formally with Opening Address for e.g. (Good morning to respected jury members…)
• Follow the Fluency (Introduction, Causes, Statistics, Consequences, Measures etc.)
• Use ‘I’ and ‘We’ for emphasis
• Thank the audience 

Marking Scheme of speech/Debate Writing

• Format – 1 Mark (Opening Address and Conclusion)

Format of Formal Invitation

Important Points to Remember While Writing a Formal Invitation

• Use Third person only
• Clearly mention the date and venue
• Enlarge the font of Proper Nouns
• Use RSVP at the end in the left side of the formal invitation and With Best Compliments From in the right side
• Adhere to word limit i.e. 50 words

Reply (Acceptance)

Important Points to Remember While Writing a reply to Formal Invitation

• Thank the sender for the invitation.

Reply (Declination)

• State the reason for your inability to come

Marking Scheme of Invitations

• Format – 1 Mark 

Format of Letters

Important Points to Remember While Writing a Formal Letter

• Use the prescribed format (Sender’s address, Date, Receiver’s address, Subject, Salutation, BOL, Subscription)

Marking Scheme of Formal Letters

• Format – 1 Mark (Sender’s address, Date, Receiver’s address, Subject, Salutation, Closing)
• Content – 3 Marks
• Expression – 2 Marks

(Grammatical Accuracy, Appropriate Words and Spellings – 1 Mark)

(Coherence, Relevance of Ideas and Style – 1 Mark)

Notice for Practice

• You are Ankit/Ankita Head Boy/Girl of St. Anslem School, Panipat. Write a notice to be put up on school’s notice board informing the students about the Farewell 2021 for class XII to be held next month in about 50 words.
• You have lost your wrist watch in your school compound. Write a notice in about 50 informing the students and requesting them to return if found. You are Manoj/Monika, a student of Delhi Public School, Gurugram.

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Trump trial highlights: DA alleges Trump led 'cook the books' scheme to hide 'porn star payoff'

What to know about trump's trial today.

• Opening statements were delivered today in former President Donald Trump's historic New York criminal trial.
• Lawyer Matthew Colangelo from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office detailed an alleged "catch and kill" scheme with Trump's blessing. Trump's attorney Todd Blanche will deliver the opening statement for the defense.
• A source with direct knowledge of the situation tells NBC News that former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker will be the first witness for the prosecution. Prosecutors have described Pecker as a central figure in the alleged scheme to bury claims from women who said they had affairs with Trump.
• Judge Juan Merchan said that court will end at 12:30 p.m. ET today and at 2 p.m. tomorrow for Passover.
• Trump faces 34 counts of falsifying business records related to the hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. He has pleaded not guilty and denied a relationship with Daniels.

After trial tomorrow, Trump to meet with former Japanese prime minister

Dasha Burns

Rebecca Shabad is in Washington, D.C.

In addition to being in court on Tuesday, Trump is expected to meet with former Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso. The trial is scheduled to conclude by 2 p.m. tomorrow to allow Passover observations.

Trump's campaign painted the meeting as evidence of his fitness to return to the White House.

“When President Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, the world will be more secure and America will be more prosperous,” spokesman Brian Hughes said.

Trump rails against judge in New York civil fraud case after agreement was reached in $175 million bond hearing

Summer Concepcion

Hours after an agreement was reached at a hearing this morning on the $175 million bond in Trump’s New York civil fraud trial , the former president went on a rant complaining about Judge Arthur Engoron, who is presiding over the civil case.

"He had no idea what he did in the trial. He charged hundreds of millions of dollars on something where I’m totally innocent," Trump told reporters after exiting the courtroom.

"But if you look at what happened today, Judge Engoron should not have done that charge, he should have gone to the business division where they have complex business trials. But actually it should have never been brought because I didn’t overestimate it," he added.

Trump attacks Cohen after leaving courtroom

Speaking to cameras outside the courtroom, Trump railed against the prosecutors for indicting him over a "legal expense" and he attacked Michael Cohen, which he's barred from doing by the judge's gag order.

"It’s a case as to bookkeeping which is a very minor thing in terms of the law, in terms of all the violent crime," he said. "This is a case in which you pay a lawyer and they call it a legal expense in the books."

"I got indicted for that," Trump said.

Trump said that the things Cohen got in trouble for "had nothing to do with me."

"He represented a lot of people over the years but they take this payment and they call it a legal expense... and this is what I got indicted over," he said.

Trump said that instead of being at the trial, he should be campaigning in states like Georgia and Florida.

"It's very unfair," he said. "I should be allowed to campaign."

Trial wraps for the day

The trial concluded at 12:42 p.m. — leaving early to allow an alternate juror to make an emergency dental appointment.

Trump's defense team makes objection to part of David Pecker's testimony

Trump lawyer Emil Bove said the defense objected to testimony from David Pecker about Dylan Howard and asked that it be struck from the record.

“We objected to some testimony about the whereabouts of Mr. Howard,” Bove said.

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said it's admissible and it could be foundational and goes to witness availability.

Jurors adjourned for the day

Jonathan Allen

Gary Grumbach

Merchan has excused jurors for the rest of the day.

Jurors departed the courtroom at 12:25 p.m.

David Pecker describes relationship with Dylan Howard, former editor-in-chief at National Enquirer

David Pecker said that he was familiar with Dylan Howard, the former editor-in-chief of the National Enquirer and chief content officer at AMI.

Pecker said Howard reported directly to him and said his job was "to make sure we got the most exclusive and current content.”

This line of questioning suggested that Howard will not testify himself.

Pecker says National Enquirer engaged in 'checkbook journalism'

Corky Siemaszko

Trump's longtime pal David Pecker admitted that the National Enquirer paid for some of its scoops.

“We used checkbook journalism and we paid for stories,” Pecker, former publisher of the supermarket tabloid, testified. “I gave a number to the editors that they could not spend more than $10,000 to investigate, produce or publish a story.” 

Trump is more alert as Pecker testifies

Katie S. Phang

Trump is now more alert, paying attention and is leaning into the defense table. He's speaking with his lawyer Emil Bove in an animated way.

His eyes are wide open and he's looking in Pecker's direction.

Who is David Pecker?

David Pecker , a Trump ally who is expected to testify during the trial, was the CEO of the National Enquirer’s parent company, American Media Inc. (AMI). He played a key role in the alleged scheme behind the hush money payment to Stormy Daniels in an effort to cover up the affair she claims she had with Trump before the 2016 election (Trump has repeatedly denied her allegations).

Pecker, a longtime friend of Trump, helped cover up potentially damaging stories about him. Prosecutors said Pecker and Michael Cohen had met with Trump at the Trump Tower in 2015 to discuss how Pecker could help suppress negative stories about Trump’s relationships with women. They allegedly discussed an instance involving Daniels, who was paid $130,000 by Cohen to not speak to media outlets about her alleged affair with Trump.

Pecker in 2018 was granted immunity by federal prosecutors in their investigation into Cohen, who pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection to hush money payments issued to women he said he made under Trump’s direction, after he spoke with prosecutors about Cohen’s payment to Daniels.

AMI in 2018 had admitted to paying $150,000 to former Playboy model Karen McDougal to silence her over an alleged affair she had with Trump before the 2016 election. Trump has denied having an affair with McDougal.

Court resumes; prosecution calls David Pecker

The prosecution has called David Pecker to the stand.

Pecker, wearing a yellow tie, with gray-and-white hair combed back, enters the courtroom from a side door.

Pecker is 72, he says. He is married, he says. Been married 36 years, he says.

Trump lawyer plays New Yorker card

Blanche wrapped up his opening statement by trying to appeal to the jury as New Yorkers.

“Listen, use your common sense," he said. "We’re New Yorkers, it’s why we’re here.” 

Blanche reminded the panel members that they assured the court they could put aside the fact that Trump was once president and is now running again.

"We trust you will base it on what you hear in this courtroom and it will be a very swift not guilty verdict," he said.

Agreement reached in the Trump New York civil fraud case

Chloe Atkins

In other Trump legal news, an agreement was reached this morning at the $175 million bond hearing in the Trump New York civil fraud case.

Chris Kise, Trump’s attorney said, they agreed with New York Attorney General Letitia James’ office to maintain the Schwab account in cash. Knight will have exclusive control of the account, and shall not trade or withdraw the account for any purpose other than to satisfy the condition of the bond.

Kise said that they will provide a monthly account statement to the attorney general’s office and that they will revise the pledge and control agreement so that it cannot be amended without the court approval.

Kise said that the parties will submit a stipulation that will memorialize this by Thursday.

Blanche concludes, trial takes 10-minute recess

Blanche concluded after 35 minutes and 10 seconds.

At the conclusion, the court took a 10-minute recess.

Blanche details Trump's relationship to Daniels

Blanche said that Daniels, though identifying her by her legal name Stephanie Clifford, is "biased against President Trump."

Blanche said that Trump met her in 2006 when he was running "The Apprentice" TV show, and he was looking for contestants. He said that she saw her chance to make a lot of money in 2016, $130,000 by making the allegations about having a sexual encounter with Trump.

“I’m going to say something else about her testimony, and this is important: It doesn’t matter," he told the jury. “Her testimony, while salacious, does not matter."

Trump's lawyer tests Merchan

Blanche said Trump believed the catch-and-kill agreements were lawful because they were made with the involvement of lawyers.

But through an earlier court ruling, Merchan expressly barred Trump from using this diluted “advice of counsel” defense, holding Trump could not protect certain communications from discovery under the attorney-client privilege while, at the same time, telling jurors that Trump believed his actions were lawful because lawyers were involved on both sides.

Trump watches jury as his lawyer argues

As Blanche moves through his opening statement, Trump is watching the jurors — occasionally moving his eyes to Blanche.

It’s hard to detect from the closed-circuit camera trained on his table. But from behind, you can see that angle of his profile shows he has been focused on the jury box for portions of the statement.

Trump’s mouth is drawn in a serious expression that betrays no emotion.

Merchan sustains objection about Cohen

Blanche accused Cohen of lying in a courtroom previously, presumably referencing Cohen’s plea to tax evasion charges, which he has since recanted and said he did only to spare his family.

Merchan summoned the lawyers back to the bench after Blanche said that Cohen has “testified under oath and lied.” 

Merchan sustained an objection from Colangelo.

Blanche rails against Cohen for attacking Trump

Blanche leaned next into calling Cohen's credibility into question.

“He has talked extensively about his desire to see President Trump go to prison," Blanche said. “Last night, 12 hours ago, Mr. Cohen on a public forum said that he had a mental excitement about this trial and his testimony.”

He said that Cohen's goal is "getting President Trump."

Blanche added that Cohen has testified under oath and lied.

Defense trying to poke holes

Laura Jarrett

Blanche’s job as a defense lawyer here isn’t to tell a neat story in the same way as the prosecution — it’s to raise doubt, poke holes and plant questions in the jury’s mind.

We see this on full display today by not disputing the payoff Daniels received. Instead, the defense simply says Trump did nothing wrong. But he doesn’t (yet) tackle how the alleged scheme was first hatched in 2015. He jumps to 2017 and the Cohen reimbursement checks — that’s an easier part of the timeline for the defense side.

Judge calls lawyers to the bench

Merchan has asked the lawyers to approach the bench after prosecutors raised a fourth objection to a portion of Blanche’s opening statement.

There were about a dozen lawyers, between the two sides, huddled around Merchan.

Trump lawyer argues 'there's nothing wrong with trying to influence an election'

“I have a spoiler alert: There’s nothing wrong with trying to influence an election," Blanche said in his opening statement. "It’s called democracy."

Prosecution objects during defense opening statement

Prosecutors objected to Blanche saying that a nondisclosure agreement is “not illegal.” Merchan sustained.

Blanche rephrased and said it is “perfectly legal.” Prosecution objected again. Merchan overruled and let Blanche continue.

Blanche argues Trump had nothing to do with the whole series of events

Blanche argued that Trump wasn't involved in covering up the payments.

"President Trump had nothing to do, had nothing to do with the invoice, with the check being generated, or with the entry on the ledger," he said.

Blanche argues the events in the case were 'years and years ago'

Ginger Gibson Senior Washington Editor

Blanche is trying to find any hole he can poke in the prosecution's case and starts by pointing out the dates when the events occurred.

Calling the events "pre-Covid," Blanche emphasized that some of the discussions dated back to 2015.

Prosecutors would not have been able to bring the case until after 2021, because Trump was largely shielded from prosecution while he was president.

Trump lawyer argues 'frugal' Trump wouldn't have paid Cohen that much

Blanche moved away from his lectern and the microphone to get a clearer look from the jury as he noted that Trump paid Cohen $420,000, rather than $130,000, trying to cast doubt on the prosecution’s argument that it was a repayment for the Daniels nondisclosure agreement.

“Would a frugal businessman … would a man who pinches pennies” repay a $130,000 debt to the tune of $420,000, Blanche told the jury.

“This was not a payback.”

Trump lawyer paints his client as a man 'just like me'

While making the case for his client’s innocence, Blanche attempted to humanize the former president in the defense’s opening statement.

Trump is a husband, a father, "a man just like me,” he said.

Trump lawyer begins opening statement by declaring Trump didn't commit any crimes

The former president's lead lawyer began his opening statement by saying that Trump did not commit any crimes.

Blanche said that the DA's office should have never brought the case. He said that Trump is presumed innocent and tells the jury that they will find him not guilty.

Trump's lawyer said that the jury has seen Trump for years. "He’s in some ways larger than life. But he’s also here in this courtroom, doing what any of us would do. Defending himself.”

He added that they will refer to Trump as President Trump because he earned that as the 45th president.

"We will call him President Trump out of respect," Blanche said. “It’s the office he’s running for right now, as the Republican nominee ... he’s also a man, he’s a husband, he’s a father and just like me.”

'Penny-pincher' Trump was willing to pay extra for catch-and-kill stories, prosecutor says

Colangelo said Trump was a "frugal businessman" but didn't count coins when it came to covering up his alleged affairs.

Prosecutors will produce evidence to show that Trump “was a very frugal businessman, believed in pinching pennies," he said. "He believed in watching every dollar. He believed in negotiating every bill. It’s all over all of the books he’s written.”

But, Colangelo said, "When it came time to pay Michael Cohen back for the catch and kill deal, you’ll see he didn’t negotiate it down. He doubled it.”

This, the prosecutor said, shows "just how important it was to him to hide the true nature” of the payments.

Prosecutor says Cohen's testimony will be backed up with emails, texts, phone logs, business documents

Colangelo told the jury that Cohen's testimony during the trial will be backed up by emails, text messages, phone logs and business documents.

“And it will be backed up by Donald Trump’s own words on tape, in social media posts, in his own books, and in videos of his own speeches," he said.

Colangelo finishes opening statement

Colangelo finished his opening statement, speaking for 45 minutes and 30 seconds.

The jury watched, he was seeming to hold their attention.

Trump lawyer Blanche is up next.

Prosecutor says jurors will learn Cohen 'has made mistakes in his past'

Colangelo said jurors can expect to hear a lot about Cohen’s backstory as Trump’s fixer.

“You will learn, and we will be very up front about it, the fact that Michael Cohen like other witnesses in this trial, has made mistakes in his past,” he said.

Prosecution uses Trump's words

The prosecution is going to great lengths to echo Trump’s own language in accusing him of committing crimes to steal an election — election integrity, fraud and the like.

Toward the conclusion of his statement, Colangelo called the alleged scheme “an illegal conspiracy to undermine the integrity of a presidential election” and pointed to “the steps that Donald Trump took to conceal that illegal election fraud.”

Prosecutor says it was a 'double lie' how Trump and his team covered up payments

Colangelo said that the Trump Organization was not in the business of paying people twice.

He said the scheme showed how important it was to hide the payment and the overall election conspiracy. He said Trump agreed to pay Cohen back in monthly installments over 2017 with 12 $35,000 payments; and Cohen would send a bogus invoice to make it seem like they were for legal services.

“That was a double lie,” Colangelo said. “There was no retainer agreement.”

“It was instead what they thought was a clever way to pay Cohen back without being too obvious about it,” he said.

Analysis of prosecution's opening statement

Listening to the prosecution’s story this morning, it’s striking to think how differently things might have turned out if federal prosecutors had charged Trump originally in connection with a campaign-related violation. They couldn’t at the time — they charged Cohen because Trump was president and the Justice Department has a policy of not charging a sitting president.

Instead, prosecutors here in New York have charged him with falsifying business records after the fact. The hurdle for prosecutors now is the timeline in their story. How would “cooking the books” in 2017, as they say, after nearly all of the damning facts had already been exposed by tons of reporting, hide anything from voters?

Prosecutor introduces former Playboy model Karen McDougal

Colangelo says a second catch-and-kill scheme was hatched to cover up Trump's alleged affair with former Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal.

"The defendant desperately did not want this information about Karen McDougal to become public because he was concerned about the election,” Colangelo said of Trump.

Pecker will testify that Trump met with him after the election to thank him, prosecution says

Pecker, the former publisher of the National Enquirer, will testify that Trump met with him after the election to thank him for dealing with the stories about women claiming to have had an affair with him, Colangelo said.

He then noted that Trump brought Pecker to the White House the following year to further show his appreciation.

Prosecutor explains Stormy Daniels situation to jury

Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo said that another woman, adult actress Stormy Daniels, came forward before the election with an encounter she said she had with Trump while he was married.

He said that Cohen learned about the allegations and discussed it with Trump, who didn't want the story to come out, saying that it would be devastating to the campaign.

Colangelo said that Cohen came up with a deal to buy her story with a nondisclosure agreement and she agreed not to disclose her story for $130,000. Trump wanted to delay payment for as long as possible but ultimately he agreed to the payoff.

They eventually agreed that Cohen would create a shell company to transfer the money and Cohen confirmed that Trump would reimburse him, the prosecutor said. Colangelo said that on Oct. 27, 2016, Cohen wired $130,000 to Daniels' lawyers.

Prosecutor says Trump 'cooked the books'

Colangelo is trying to make the case about why the jury should get from hush money payment to document fraud.

Trump Org. couldn't write a check with "Reimbursement for porn star payoff" on the memo line, Colangelo says.

"So they agreed to cook the books” and make it look like the repayment was actually income," he said.

Judge watches prosecution's opening statement closely

Merchan is watching the prosecution’s opening statement closely, but his eyes are going back and forth — pingpong style — between Colangelo and the jurors. He’s rocking gently in his chair with his chin between his thumb and forefinger.

Prosecutor vows to jurors 'you’ll hear defendant’s own voice on a tape'

Colangelo promised that jurors will hear the defendant's "own voice on a tape" in the alleged scheme to silence women who claimed to have had affairs with Trump.

Prosecutor is quoting Trump in the 'Access Hollywood' tape

Colangelo just quoted Trump from the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape that came out in October 2016, just weeks before the election, to the jury.

Colangelo quoted Trump saying that he could grab women by the "p----."

He said that those were Trump’s words one month before Election Day and that “the impact of that video on the campaign was immediate and explosive." Merchan ruled that prosecutors can’t play the tape.

Prosecutor explains $30,000 payment to former Trump Tower doorman

Colangelo explained that Pecker and Cohen learned about a former Trump Tower doorman who was trying to sell information about Trump having a child out of wedlock.

He said Pecker contacted Cohen immediately and Cohen told Trump who told him to take care of it. They then negotiated a $30,000 agreement to buy the story, he said.

Colangelo argued that Pecker was not acting as a publisher, but as a co-conspirator.

Trump lawyers listen intently to prosecution's opening statement

Trump lawyers Blanche and Susan Necheles have turned their seats toward Colangelo as he delivers the prosecution’s opening statement. While Trump continues to face forward with hooded eyes, his lawyer Emil Bove is seen taking notes, looking down in his lap.

Blanche, who does not appear to be taking notes, is also watching the jury as Colangelo continues to deliver his opening statement.

Prosecutor explains alleged roles of Cohen and Pecker in scheme

Colangelo explained Cohen and Pecker’s alleged roles in the hush money scheme.

“Cohen’s job really was to take care of problems for the defendant," he said. “He was Trump’s fixer.”

Colangelo said that together, the two conspired to influence the outcome of the 2016 election and that Pecker would act as eyes and ears for Trump. Pecker's job was to gather information that could be harmful and report that to Cohen, he said.

Prosecutor says Trump began reimbursing Cohen after election

Colangelo, in his opening statement, said Trump starting paying back Cohen for making the hush money payments after winning the White House.

"After the election, the defendant then reimbursed Cohen for that payment through a series of monthly checks all of which were processed through the defendant’s company, the Trump Organization," he said.

Merchan advises jurors against reading about or researching the case online or listening on the radio

Merchan urged jurors not to read or listen to any accounts of the hush money case on the radio or the internet. He also instructed jurors to not conduct research on the case at the library, via Google or any other news source.

Merchan stressed that decisions made by jurors must be based solely on evidence presented in the courtroom.

Prosecutor says 'this case is about criminal conspiracy'

Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo says in his opening statement, “This case is about criminal conspiracy.”

Laying out the prosecution's case in the courtroom for the first time, he described a conspiracy between Trump and Cohen.

He argued that Trump tried to corrupt the 2016 election.

“Then, he covered up that criminal conspiracy by lying in his New York business records over and over and over again," Colangelo said.

Opening statements are beginning

The opening statements are beginning.

Trump's eyes are shut

Trump's eyes are shut and across the aisle, Bragg is catching a glimpse of the former president from his seat in the front row of the gallery.

Merchan reads out jury instructions

Merchan read the jury instructions aloud and explained the stages of the trial. 

He reminded jurors of the basic principles of the law and said that, at the conclusion of the case, he will remind them that the law applies to the crime and that prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

Merchan also explained the role of a court reporter, before going on to tell jurors, “What I say is not evidence.”

“You must decide this case on the evidence,” he said.

“What the lawyers say at any time is not evidence,” the judge added.

Merchan says there are six prior court decisions that are admissible on cross-examination for Trump

Merchan said that if Trump takes the stand, prosecutors can bring up six determinations in four separate proceedings:

• Feb. 16: The N.Y. fraud case in which a judge found Trump violated law in stating the value of his assets.
• Oct. 28, 2022: Failing to remove an untrue personally identifying post about a law clerk on DonaldJTrump.com and was fined $5,000.
• Oct. 21, 2023: Intentionally violated court order by continually attacking court clerk. Fine was $10,000.
• The court will allow people to bring up how the defendant defamed E. Jean Carroll by making a false statement.
• Carroll v. Trump II: The court will allow prosecutors to bring up how a jury found Trump defamed E. Jean Carroll by making false statements with actual malice.
• People James v. Trump: Donald J. Trump Foundation engaged in repeated and willful self-dealing transactions.

Jury being sat

The jury is being brought into the room and seated, for the first time, as a group.

No Trump family members appear to be in the courtroom

It does not appear that there are any of Trump’s family members present in the courtroom this morning.

Bragg has entered the courtroom

Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg is in the courtroom.

Juror 9 was concerned about media attention but will remain on jury

Merchan said that the court received a call from juror 9 who expressed concern about media attention. After a meeting with the juror and lawyers for both sides, the judge announced, however, that the juror will remain on the jury.

Merchan says court will conclude at 12:30 p.m. today

Merchan said alternate juror 6 would be able to make an emergency dentist appointment at 3 p.m. for a toothache. But the appointment was moved up to 1:20 p.m., prompting the judge to tell her that the court would conclude at 12:30 p.m. today.

Lawyers estimate length of opening statements

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said the prosecution’s opening statement would be about 40 minutes and Blanche said the defense's would be about 25 minutes.

A key source of money for Trump's legal fees is drying up

Ben Kamisar

Trump has covered tens of millions of dollars in legal fees from his leadership PAC, Save America. But a new fundraising report filed over the weekend shows that the revenue stream might be drying up.

Save America started April with just $4.1 million in the bank as the group has paid almost $60 million in legal fees since the start of last year (the majority to firms related to his various trials). But there's a bigger warning sign in the filings for Trump.

Shortly before announcing his presidential bid in 2022, Save America sent the top pro-Trump super PAC, MAGA Inc., $60 million to be used to boost his candidacy from the outside. But amid the former president's legal crunch, MAGA Inc. has been slowly refunding that donation, providing an important injection of funds into Save America as it pays Trump's legal fees. (Note: Virtually all of the money Save America raised last month came from a refund.)

The new filings show that MAGA Inc. has refunded all but $2.8 million of that $60 million donation. So, Trump will need to find new ways to fund his legal defense, as there appears to be no sign those expenses are going away anytime soon.

Court is in session

The judge is on the bench and trial has begun for the day.

Trump's lawyers will work to try to undermine Michael Cohen's credibility.

All the players in Trump’s hush money trial

The charges against Trump stem from an investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office into an alleged “catch and kill” scheme to bury negative stories about Trump before the 2016 presidential election in a bid to influence the outcome.

According to prosecutors, several people participated in the scheme, which involved paying people off to buy their silence and covering up the payments in Trump’s business records.

Here are the key people in the case who will come up during the trial, potentially as witnesses.

Protesters outside the courthouse

A group of protesters is demonstrating outside the courthouse. Some are holding signs. One says, "Election interference is a crime."

"Slept with a porn star. Screwed the voters," another says, with a photo of Trump's face.

Another has images of dictators and then Trump's face saying that they all believe they're above the law.

Trump arrives at the courthouse

Trump arrived at the courthouse at 8:52 a.m.

Trump criticizes hush money case in overnight post

In an overnight post on his Truth Social platform, Trump blasted Bragg while complaining about the case.

"The Corrupt Soros Funded District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, who has totally lost control of Violent Crime in New York, says that the payment of money to a lawyer, for legal services rendered, should not be referred to in a Ledger as LEGAL EXPENSE," he wrote. "What other term would be more appropriate??? Believe it or not, this is the pretext under which I was Indicted, and that Legal Scholars and Experts CANNOT BELIEVE."

Trump also repeated his claims of the hush money trial being part of an effort to interfere with his presidential campaign.

"It is also the perfect Crooked Joe Biden NARRATIVE — To be STUCK in a courtroom, and not be allowed to campaign for President of the United States!" he wrote.

Here's what you missed last week

Katherine Doyle

• Day 1, April 15 : On the first day of the New York hush money trial , Trump argued that the criminal justice system is being weaponized against him and repeatedly claimed that the prosecution is engaging in “election interference” amid his re-election campaign. Trump sat at the defense trial as the court worked to eliminate jurors who said they could not be fair and impartial in the case — at least 50 out of 96 of the first batch of prospective jurors were excused for that reason.
• Day 2, April 16 : The challenge of finding 12 impartial jurors in Democratic-leaning Manhattan continued as lawyers reviewed old social media posts, pressed jurors on where they get their news and sought to nix candidates they thought could potentially taint the case. Merchan had warned Trump against attempting to intimidate potential jurors.
• Trial off day, April 17 : A day after the first seven jurors were selected out of a pool of nearly 100 people, Trump slammed the jury selection process on the trial’s scheduled off-day. The presumptive GOP presidential nominee erroneously insinuated that he should be entitled to unlimited strikes of potential jurors in the hush money case.
• Day 3, April 18: Jury selection continued and Trump paid closer attention to potential jurors who brought up certain topics that piqued his interest, such as experience in law enforcement, real estate and the media they consume. Two jurors were dismissed after having been seated, with one juror doubting her ability to be fair or impartial and another after prosecutors raised concerns about a potential criminal history he did not disclose. At the end of the day, Merchan swore in the 12-person jury, plus an alternate.
• Day 4, April 19 : The five remaining alternates were chosen and sworn in. In a dramatic moment outside the courthouse, a man set himself on fire and later died of his injuries.

Meet the 12 jury members of Trump’s hush money trial

All 12 jurors, plus an alternate, were selected to serve on the jury last week after they made it clear to both sides that they could render a fair and impartial verdict.

Prosecutors and the defense team  whittled down a pool of nearly 200 people to 12 jurors and an alternate after grilling them on their personal history, political views, social media posts and ability to remain impartial despite any opinions they might have about the polarizing former president.

Read the full story here.

Pecker expected to be first witness

A source with direct knowledge of the situation tells NBC News that David Pecker will be the first witness for the prosecution beginning today. This source says that due to the Sandoval hearing, opening statements and the gag order hearing tomorrow, they don’t expect the cross-examination of Pecker to happen until Thursday.

Prosecutors have said that Pecker, the longtime former publisher of the National Enquirer, is a central figure in the alleged coverup scheme and the architect of the “catch and kill” plots.

Opening statements and first witness on tap for Trump hush money trial

Dareh Gregorian

Opening statements are set to begin this morning at 9:30 a.m. ET in the case of the People of the State of New York versus Donald Trump , the first criminal trial of a former president.

Attorneys on both sides will present their opening statements after the judge delivers instructions to the 12-person jury and six alternates.