What is a pre-trial conference?

A pre-trial conference in Pennsylvania is a meeting between the plaintiff (the person who files the lawsuit) and the defendant (the person who is being sued) before a trial in court. At the pre-trial conference, both sides have the chance to come to an agreement on their own without the need for a trial. During the conference, the parties can discuss ways to settle the case, such as by agreeing on a financial settlement or dismissing the case altogether. The pre-trial conference is an important step in the legal process, as it can help the parties reach an agreement quickly and at a much lower cost than a full trial. At the pre-trial conference, each side presents their position to the other. The judge or magistrate who is holding the meeting may give their opinion on the case, and make suggestions as to how the parties can settle their dispute. After this, the parties may decide to go ahead with a settlement or to proceed with a trial. In either case, the judge or magistrate will make a record of the pre-trial conference, which will be presented to the court if the parties do not reach an agreement.

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