What is a status conference in a felony case?

A status conference in a felony case is a court hearing where the judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, and sometimes the defendant discuss the progress of the case. This meeting is typically held to make sure that the case is moving forward, address any issues or concerns, and set deadlines for completing certain tasks.

During a status conference, the parties may discuss discovery, evidence, witness lists, plea negotiations, pretrial motions, and trial dates. The judge may also inquire about any outstanding issues or requests that need to be addressed before the trial can proceed.

Overall, the purpose of a status conference in a felony case is to ensure that the case is on track, all necessary steps are being taken, and that both the prosecution and defense are prepared for trial. It is an opportunity for all parties involved to communicate and coordinate the next steps in the legal process.