What is the pre-trial stage of civil procedure?

In Virginia, the pre-trial stage of civil procedure is the period of time when parties in a lawsuit try to reach a settlement before going to court. This period of time begins after the complaint and answer are filed, but before a judge or jury makes a final decision. The pre-trial stage typically involves a few key steps. First, the parties to the lawsuit will exchange information, including evidence and legal arguments. This is known as “discovery”. Next, the parties may try to reach a negotiated settlement, often with the help of a mediator or arbitrator. If a settlement cannot be reached, the parties must prepare for trial - they might need to file additional paperwork and prepare legal arguments. In Virginia, the pre-trial stage is referred to as the “pretrial conference”. At this conference, the parties will usually discuss the progress of the case so far, any outstanding issues, and the schedule for the trial. The judge presiding over the case may also issue certain orders. The pre-trial stage of civil procedure is a critical part of the legal process. By taking the time to exchange information and consider a negotiated settlement, parties can often reduce the time and cost of the litigation.

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What is the pre-trial stage of civil procedure?

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