What is the main purpose of a "pretrial conference" in Utah litigation?

The main purpose of a pretrial conference in Utah litigation is to facilitate case management and encourage settlement. During this conference, the parties involved meet with the judge to discuss various aspects of the case, including the timeline, potential motions, discovery issues, and the possibility of settlement. This collaborative environment aims to streamline the litigation process, reduce unnecessary delays, and promote the resolution of disputes outside of a trial setting.

While issues such as witness credibility and jury selection are important to the overall litigation process, they are typically addressed at different stages or in different settings. The finalization of the trial date, while a logistical detail, is not the primary focus of the pretrial conference. Thus, the emphasis during this pretrial meeting is on management and settlement, making it a crucial component in the litigation process.