What is the role of "pretrial conferences"?

The role of pretrial conferences is primarily to facilitate discussions and simplify issues before the trial begins. These conferences serve as a critical tool for the court and the parties involved to outline the key points of the case, address any preliminary legal matters, and encourage settlement discussions. By doing this, the court can manage the trial efficiently, leading to a clearer understanding of the disputes that need to be resolved during the trial.

During a pretrial conference, the parties may identify uncontested facts, outline potential evidence, and clarify legal issues that might arise. This process helps in narrowing the focus of the trial, ultimately making it more streamlined and organized. The outcome is often a reduction in trial time and costs, as the court can avoid unnecessary litigation over issues that have already been discussed and potentially resolved.

By contrast, finalizing jury selection, producing written evidence, and establishing new laws do not align with the primary objectives of pretrial conferences. These aspects pertain to different stages of the legal process or legal functions that lack the pretrial conference focus on simplification and discussion.