What is a status hearing?

A status hearing is primarily a proceeding designed to update the court on the progress of a case. During this type of hearing, the parties involved, including the attorneys and sometimes the clients, provide information about how the case is progressing, any outstanding issues, and what steps still need to be taken in order to move forward. This can include updates on discovery, negotiations, and other procedural developments. The judge uses this information to manage the court’s schedule and to ensure that the case is proceeding in a timely manner.

This function is distinct from other types of proceedings. For instance, it is not a formal trial phase, which involves presenting evidence and making legal arguments in front of a jury or judge, nor is it a session for sentencing defendants, which occurs after a conviction has been rendered. Additionally, while jury selection is crucial in preparing for trial, it is a separate process aimed at assembling a panel of jurors. In contrast, a status hearing focuses solely on the administrative and procedural aspects of the case's progression.