Opening Statements for a Criminal Trial

What is the primary purpose of an opening statement in a criminal trial?

• To cross-examine witnesses

• To deliver the final verdict

• To preview what the jury is about to hear

• To present evidence to the jury

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

• Introduction

• Cross-examination

• Creation of a Theme

• Rule of Law

Why should attorneys avoid using a large amount of legal jargon in opening statements?

• To make the statement shorter

• To ensure jury members do not get lost

• Because the judge might not understand

• Because it is against court rules

What is the role of the prosecution in an opening statement?

• To ask the jury to find the defendant not guilty

• To ask the jury to find the defendant guilty

• To present the closing argument

• To introduce the defense team

What should attorneys focus on when creating a theme for their opening statement?

• Introducing all the witnesses

• Explaining the legal procedures

• Listing all the evidence they have

• Establishing a phrase that summarizes their theory of the case