What is the difference between a preliminary hearing and a trial in criminal defense law?

A preliminary hearing and a trial in criminal defense law serve different purposes. A preliminary hearing is the first phase of a criminal proceeding to decide whether the case should continue. It is essentially a hearing before a judge to decide whether the state has enough evidence at that point in time to proceed to trial. At a preliminary hearing, the state presents evidence to show that a crime may have been committed and the defendant may have committed the crime. The defense is present to challenge the evidence and/or present evidence on their own behalf. At the conclusion of the preliminary hearing, the judge will decide whether or not there is cause to move forward with the case, or if the case should be dismissed. A trial is the next step in a criminal proceeding and is a process by which a jury or judge determines the guilt or innocence of the defendant. During a trial, both the state and the defense present evidence in order to prove their case. The defendant is presumed innocent and the state must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. The defendant has the right to remain silent, to confront the witnesses against them, and to cross-examine witnesses. The jury or judge decides the verdict, which is either guilty or not guilty. A preliminary hearing and a trial in criminal defense law are important stages in a criminal proceeding. The preliminary hearing is used to decide whether a case should proceed, while a trial is the stage at which the guilt or innocence of the defendant is determined.

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What is the difference between a preliminary hearing and a trial in criminal defense law?

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