What is the purpose of a discovery motion?

A discovery motion serves the purpose of obtaining information before trial. This is a critical process in the legal system, as it allows both parties involved in a case—the prosecution and the defense—to share relevant evidence and information that may be helpful in preparing for trial.

The discovery process ensures that both sides have access to the evidence that will be presented, promoting fairness and transparency in the judicial process. It can involve requests for documents, witness lists, recordings, and various other forms of evidence that are pertinent to the case. By facilitating this exchange, the discovery motion helps to prevent surprises during the trial, allowing both parties to adequately prepare their arguments and defenses. This is essential for upholding the principles of justice, ensuring that each party is aware of the evidence that may impact the outcome of the case.

The other options reflect different legal processes or stages that do not align with the primary objective of a discovery motion, which is specifically focused on pre-trial information gathering.