What is the main purpose of a pretrial conference?

The main purpose of a pretrial conference is to discuss the case and explore settlement options. This stage occurs before a trial begins and serves several key functions. It allows the judge and the parties involved to clarify the issues at hand, discuss the evidence and arguments that will be presented, and encourage both sides to consider settling the case before it goes to trial.

During the pretrial conference, the judge may also set deadlines for certain tasks, review how the discovery process has unfolded, and determine what can be streamlined at trial to make the process more efficient. This collaborative atmosphere is intended to promote resolution outside of court, which can save time and resources for everyone involved.

The other options, while related to trial preparation, do not capture the primary objectives of a pretrial conference. Finalizing witness lists or selecting a jury are tasks that take place later in the trial preparation process, and the final verdict is the outcome of the trial itself, not a purpose of the pretrial phase.