Opening Statement Review Quiz

What is the primary purpose of an opening statement?

• Argue the case to the jury

• Provide emotional support to the client

• Preview the evidence in a persuasive way

• Test the credibility of witnesses

Which part of the opening statement discusses the burden of proof?

• Conclusion

• Theme-story-theme sandwich

• Law introduction

• Witness preview

What is a 'theme' in a mock trial opening statement?

• A legal rule

• A dramatic ending

• A short, memorable phrase that summarizes your case theory

• The name of the case

What does it mean to tell the story "in your own words" during an opening statement?

• Read directly from the affidavit

• Reword witness statements and facts using plain language

• Make up facts to make your side sound better

• Quote legal documents extensively

Which of the following is an example of a good theme?

• The defendant will be proven guilty

• It's complicated, but justice will be served

• Actions speak louder than words

• The law will prevail

What makes a theme effective?

• It uses legal jargon

• It is catchy, short, and matches your evidence

• It is dramatic and emotional

• It summarizes the entire trial

In the theme-story-theme sandwich structure, what does the 'story' refer to?

• The judge's summary of facts

• The personal story of the attorney

• A short, engaging narrative that reflects the facts of the case

• A legal analysis

Why do good opening statements avoid arguing the case too directly?

• It’s not allowed in opening statements

• Juries don’t like being told what to think

• It violates courtroom etiquette

• It distracts from the theme

What is the main goal when previewing witnesses during an opening?

• Introduce each witness’s credentials

• Explain who they are and how their testimony supports your case in a timely manner

• Make the jury like the witnesses

• Cross-examine your own witnesses

Which of the following is NOT part of the structure of an opening statement?

• Argument

• Introduction

• Witness preview

• Conclusion