PRELIMINARY STATEMENT

preliminary statement. The introductory part of a brief or memorandum in support of a motion, in which the advocate summarizes the essence of what follows. • In at least two jurisdictions, New York and New Jersey, the preliminary statement is a standard part of court papers. In many other jurisdictions, advocates do not routinely include it. But preliminary statements are typically allowed, even welcomed, though not required. — Also termed summary of argument.

[Blacks Law 8th]