What Happens in a Pre-Trial Conference in Utah?

 Posted on October 17, 2024 in Criminal Defense

It is distressing to be arrested or accused of a crime, especially if it is your first time. With tensions running high, it can feel overwhelming as you try to learn about the stages of the criminal justice system, and you might have a hard time navigating your desire to be cooperative with your need to protect your rights. 

Depending on the details of your case, you might have to go through a stage called the pretrial conference, which can have a significant impact on your future. If you are facing a criminal process and have questions about what to expect, a skilled Salt Lake City, UT criminal defense attorney has answers.

What is a Pre-Trial Conference?

In misdemeanor and felony cases, the prosecutor and the defense attorney can meet outside court during what is called a pre-trial conference. They discuss the case and try to reach a deal that both can agree to in order to try to avoid going to trial. The defendant typically joins this negotiation, but it can happen without the defendant if that makes more sense for the case in question. The judge is not brought into the conversation unless the sides are unable to reach an agreement on their own.

During the pre-trial conference, both parties present evidence the other party has not yet seen. Any discovery requests need to be addressed, so the conference will be postponed if there is material either side has not had the opportunity to review in full. 

Once the discussion about the evidence both sides have is complete, the conference turns its focus to negotiating a deal. Most Utah criminal cases are handled without a trial. While prosecutors tend to be less willing to compromise for more serious crimes, they often try to offer something attractive for smaller crimes because resolving a case out of court is much less costly for the state than going to trial.

What Happens if No Deal Is Reached in the Pre-Trial Conference?

If the deal being offered by the prosecutor is not satisfactory for the defendant, the matter will proceed to a trial. The parties first attend a scheduling conference with the judge. This is a time for motions to be heard and for a date to be set for the trial, and then the trial will proceed. 

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Salt Lake City, UT Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges, an experienced Davis County, UT criminal defense attorney can explain the criminal process to you and help you navigate all the stages. At Collins Rupp, P.C., we are dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and advocating aggressively for favorable outcomes. Call us at 385-777-2753 to schedule a free consultation.