Definition

Relating to the period or events that happen before a legal trial takes place.

Example

The lawyer prepared documents for the pretrial meeting with the judge.

Conversation

I heard there will be a pretrial hearing next week.

Oh really? I didn't know that was happening.

Yeah, I think it’s important to understand how pretrial processes work.

Definitely! It could change a lot for those involved.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A meeting or process that happens before a formal trial, usually to settle legal issues or clarify facts.

Example

The judge scheduled a pretrial to discuss the evidence and arguments from both sides.

Conversation

Did you hear about the pretrial meeting next week?

Yeah, I heard it's going to clarify a lot of the issues.

I wonder what they will discuss during the pretrial.

Root Explanation

Pretrial → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "trial" (from Old French *trial*, meaning a test or examination). The word "pretrial" refers to the period or activities that occur before a trial takes place.

Memory Tip

Think of 'before' ('pre-') a 'test' or 'examination' ('trial') — that's what pretrial means.

Visually Confused Words