It is common sense that the judge will deliver his judgment on the basis of the whole evidence that has come on record during the trial, and not merely on the basis of the arguments made by lawyers at the time of the final arguments.
Of course, the quality of the arguments made by the lawyer (at the time of the final arguments) will also count, because he can analyse the evidence and show the importance of such evidence. If you have a good lawyer arguing your case, he can properly explain what all evidence that is on record and what is the importance of each piece of the evidence in your favour.
If you have engaged a lawyer, then you will not be allowed to argue in person as an accused. If you do not have confidence in your existing advocate, you can change him. Or else, if you feel confident to argue the case yourself, then you can discharge your advocate and appear in person, in which case the court will permit you to argue the case yourself at the time of the final arguments. Choice is yours.
Dr. Ashok Dhamija is a New Delhi based Supreme Court Advocate and author of law books. Read more about him by clicking here. List of his Forum Replies. List of his other articles. List of his Quora Answers. List of his YouTube Videos.
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