"Welcome back," Alex said, nodding at her group. They were in the Danger Room once more, which should not be very surprising to the students. It was a wonder Alex didn't move every class here, considering how at home she felt in the courtroom. Even, yes, a fake one.

"I hope you rehearsed your opening statements," she began, "because that is what we're starting with. Each of you will stand up, explain whether you're representing the prosecution or the defense, and approach the jury. Give your opening statement. Don't be nervous -- if it helps, remember that they're just constructs of this room. Be clear, and confident, and address them as you might a co-worker, or an acquaintance. The jury is helping you seek justice, no matter which side you represent. You don't need to flatter them, or try to curry favor, but be sure not to alienate them, either. A hostile jury will be less inclined to believe you."

She offered a reassuring smile. "It'll be over before you know it. Once you're finished, we'll discuss, and your classmates and I can offer feedback. Supportive feedback, I'd like to add, because I won't tolerate any of you being rude." The smile was replace with a very firm death glare, just to underscore that particular point. "Point out weaknesses, but also strengths. Make constructive suggestions. It's a process, one we'll be going through together.

"And once we've finished that, we'll talk a little about examining witnesses -- which is, naturally, what you'll be doing in class next week."

(OOC: Alex's sample opening statement (in the marked OCD thread below) discusses violent crime and predatory behavior, and thus could be triggery. Please avoid if that is upsetting. The rest of class should be fine.)