What is a "settlement conference" in civil cases?

A settlement conference in civil cases refers to a meeting facilitated by a judge, aimed at helping the parties involved reach a resolution before the case proceeds to trial. This process is designed to encourage negotiation and compromise, enabling the parties to settle their disputes amicably and avoid the time, expense, and uncertainty of a trial. During the conference, the judge may provide insights on the strengths and weaknesses of each party's case, which can help in guiding the discussions towards a potential settlement.

The judge’s role is crucial in this setting because they bring an authoritative perspective that can help parties see the practical implications of continuing with litigation versus settling. By fostering dialogue and identifying common ground, the judge plays an essential part in steering the parties toward an agreement that is acceptable to both sides.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately define what a settlement conference entails. A proper court session for jury deliberation, for instance, is fundamentally different as it pertains to juries reaching a verdict after a trial has concluded. Similarly, a private discussion between lawyers typically lacks the judicial facilitation that characterizes a settlement conference, and a mandatory meeting for evidence presentation also diverges from the primary purpose of promoting settlement through discussion and negotiation.