What is an omnibus hearing?

An omnibus hearing is a pretrial conference in a criminal case where various legal issues and procedural matters are addressed before the trial begins. This hearing serves as a way to streamline the trial process and address any potential issues that may arise during the course of the trial.

During an omnibus hearing, the prosecution and defense may discuss matters such as discovery of evidence, pretrial motions, potential plea agreements, and other legal issues that may impact the trial proceedings. The judge may also set dates for future hearings, establish guidelines for the trial, and address any other administrative matters related to the case.

Omnibus hearings are typically held in felony cases and are meant to ensure that the trial proceeds smoothly and efficiently. By addressing potential issues and legal matters beforehand, the parties involved can streamline the trial process and avoid delays or complications during the actual trial.