To help you follow the evidence, I will give you a brief summary of the positions of the parties:
The plaintiff asserts that [plaintiff’s claims]. The plaintiff has the burden of proving these claims.
The defendant denies those claims [and also contends that [defendant’s counterclaims and/or affirmative defenses]]. [The defendant has the burden of proof on these [counterclaims and/or affirmative defenses.]]
[The plaintiff denies [defendant’s counterclaims and/or affirmative defenses].]
Links
[1] https://www.ce9.uscourts.gov/jury-instructions/sites/default/files/WPD/1.05_civil_2017.wpd