Session 6: Pre-Trial Hearing
During the second week, I was placed in Pre-Trial which is held in the sixth session. Pre-Trial hearings aim to resolve legal issues, questions or complaints prior to trial. It is generally attended by the plaintiff, defendant, judge, lawyers, clerks assistant, and other parties may be included. Usually, attorneys respond to motions or file motions. A motion is a request made by a prosecutor or defense attorney directed to the court to make a decision on a certain issue before the trial begins. Examples of motions that can be set are a motion to dismiss, motions to suppress and motions for change of venue, motion to compel, etc.
Motion to Dismiss: An attempt to get a judge to dismiss the case/charge due to lack of evidence or settlements prior
Motion to Suppress: An attempt to keep certain evidence from being introduced during the trial
Motions for Change of Venue: An attempt to change the venue in order to protect the defendant's right to an impartial jury.
Motion to Compel: An attempt to get the judge to compel another party to answer questions he/she has refused thus far.
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One challenge that I have encountered throughout my internship is finding parking upon arrival. One thing I have learned as of the second week of my internship is that in order for the defendant to be arraigned they must be interviewed by probation upon their arrival.
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