During the opening statement of defense attorney Abbe Lowell in the case against Hunter Biden, the emphasis was placed on the significance of the word 'knowingly' in the charges brought against him. Lowell pointed out that prosecutors had omitted this crucial word, arguing that it is a key element of the case. He stressed that it is essential for the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Hunter knowingly violated the law, highlighting the importance of Hunter's state of mind at the time.
Lowell also addressed the issue of the firearm in question, noting that out of the 11 days Hunter Biden possessed it, it was only out of a lockbox for one day. This detail was presented as part of the defense's argument to contextualize the situation and Hunter's actions.
Furthermore, Lowell delved into Hunter Biden's struggles with addiction, attributing them to various traumas he had experienced throughout his life. He mentioned the childhood car crash that resulted in the death of Hunter's mother and left him with a brain injury as a pivotal moment that contributed to his addiction issues.
Describing Hunter as one of the millions of individuals in the country grappling with addiction, Lowell highlighted his long-standing battle with substance abuse, stating that he had been abusing alcohol since his teenage years and drugs since adulthood.