What is the difference between a settlement conference and a motion for summary judgment?

In the civil legal process, a settlement conference and a motion for summary judgment are two different proceedings that can potentially resolve disputes. In Virginia, a settlement conference is the culmination of two or more parties attempting to reach an agreement without going to trial. It is voluntary and non-binding. At a settlement conference, parties present their cases to a mediator and try to work out a compromise between the two. The mediator does not decide the case, but can provide advice on the dispute. If an agreement is reached, it will need to be approved by a judge before it is final. A motion for summary judgment is a way to end a case without going to trial. It is a request made by a party to a lawsuit asking the court to issue a judgment in its favor. A party making a motion for summary judgment must demonstrate that there is no genuine dispute or issue of fact and that they are entitled to judgment as a matter of law. In summary, a settlement conference is a voluntary, non-binding process in which two or more parties attempt to come to an agreement while a motion for summary judgment is a request from one party asking the court to issue a judgment in its favor without going to trial.

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What is the difference between a settlement conference and a motion for summary judgment?

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