A pretrial conference in Utah is a scheduled court hearing that takes place after arraignment but before trial. It is not a trial, no witnesses testify, and no jury is present. The focus is on resolving issues and seeing if the case can be settled without trial.

Under Utah Rules of Criminal Procedure Rule 17, the court can use pretrial conferences to:

• Review discovery and evidence exchange
• Encourage plea negotiations
• Discuss motions or scheduling matters
• Determine readiness for trial

For many defendants, this is the first real chance to see how the case might play out and whether the prosecutor is open to reducing or dismissing charges.

Related Utah Rule. See Rule 17 here: Utah R. Crim. P. 17.

• The judge manages the hearing, checks on progress, and may encourage resolution.
• The prosecutor represents the State of Utah and may offer a plea deal or update on discovery.
• The defense attorney advocates for the defendant’s best outcome.

Defendants usually must attend in person unless their lawyer has permission for a remote appearance. The court may review discovery issues, confirm whether evidence has been exchanged, and ask whether the parties are negotiating or ready to proceed.

• Plea offer accepted – The defendant pleads guilty or no contest to a reduced charge or sentence recommendation.
• Continuance granted – The case is postponed for more time to negotiate, review evidence, or file motions.
• Case dismissed – Charges are dropped, often due to weak evidence or procedural issues.
• Set for trial – If no agreement is reached, the judge schedules a trial date and sets final deadlines.

Judges often use this stage to encourage resolution and remind both sides of the costs and uncertainties of trial.

Plea bargaining often happens right around or during a pretrial conference. The prosecutor may offer to reduce the charge or recommend a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. Defense attorneys use this moment to present mitigating factors like lack of prior record, positive steps since arrest, or weaknesses in the State’s case.

If you are considering a plea, discuss all consequences with your attorney, including immigration status, probation, and license issues. Once entered, a plea deal can be difficult to undo.

If the sides do not reach an agreement, the case moves forward. The judge will set deadlines for:

• Filing motions such as motions to suppress evidence
• Final discovery exchange
• Trial preparation

Bail conditions may also be revisited. If you have followed court orders and stayed out of trouble, your attorney may ask to reduce bail or modify release terms.

The best outcomes happen when defendants and counsel come prepared. That means reviewing discovery, spotting weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and discussing possible plea options ahead of time.

A pretrial conference is not a formality. It is your chance to influence how the rest of the case unfolds. Be clear with your attorney about your goals whether clearing your name, minimizing penalties, or avoiding jail so they can negotiate from a position of strength.