iRubric: Mock Trial Attorney Rubric

Attorneys are clearly not prepared for trial

Attorneys are somewhat prepared for trial, but are missing key parts of preparation including missing evidence, witness prep, or opening/closing statements

Attorneys are prepared for trial, but experience brief lapses in preparation including: forgetting lines, failing to use appropriate time, or not enough materials/evidence

Attorneys are extremely prepared for trial, evidenced by prepared witnesses, strong, factual arguments, and plenty of testimony/evidence.

Incomplete opening statement

Explains what the attorney plans to prove and how they will do it.

Explains what the attorney plans to prove and how they will do it.
Presents the events of the case in a clear, orderly sequence.
Tells the story without arguing the case.

Explains what the attorney plans to prove and how they will do it.
Presents the events of the case in a clear, orderly sequence (outline some basic events)
Tells the story without arguing the case. Hooks the audience.

Speaker never looks up, cannot be heard, moves nervously, or stands rooted to one spot.

Speaker uses note cards to avoid making eye contact. Volume and pace are difficult to follow. Movements are not related to speech and reflect nervousness.

Speaker uses notes but maintains adequate eye contact with the jury. Volume and pace are consistent with main points. Gestures and movement are used hesitantly.

Speaker makes frequent eye contact with the jury. Volume and pace reflect intensity of main points. Movement and gestures add emphasis to main points.