What is the purpose of a preliminary hearing?

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The primary purpose of a preliminary hearing is to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. This hearing serves as an essential checkpoint in the legal process, allowing the judge to evaluate the strength of the prosecution's case against the defendant. During this hearing, the prosecutor must present sufficient evidence, and the defense has the opportunity to contest this evidence. If the judge finds that probable cause exists, the case will move forward to trial, but if the evidence is deemed insufficient, charges may be dismissed.

This process is crucial for protecting the rights of the defendant and ensuring that individuals are not subjected to the potentially severe consequences of a trial without adequate evidence supporting the charges against them. The preliminary hearing thus plays a significant role in upholding justice and fair legal proceedings.

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