Legal Definitions - Status conference

Status conference

Status conference is a meeting that happens before a trial where lawyers from both sides and sometimes a judge meet. The purpose of a status conference depends on the type of case. In a criminal case, the prosecution and defense lawyers exchange evidence and sometimes discuss plea bargains. In civil cases, status conferences can involve exchanging evidence, agreeing to certain terms, and starting negotiations on a settlement agreement. Sometimes a judge will attend a status conference to give their opinion on plea or settlement offers and set timelines for other pre-trial matters.

• In a criminal case, a status conference may involve the prosecution and defense lawyers discussing evidence and whether a plea bargain is possible.
• In a civil case, a status conference may involve the lawyers exchanging evidence and starting negotiations on a settlement agreement.
• A judge may attend a status conference to give their opinion on plea or settlement offers and set timelines for other pre-trial matters.

The examples illustrate how a status conference is a meeting where lawyers and sometimes a judge discuss the progress of a case before trial. In criminal cases, they may discuss evidence and plea bargains, while in civil cases, they may negotiate a settlement agreement. A judge may attend to provide guidance and set timelines for pre-trial matters.