Why is pre-trial procedures important??

Question

in the criminal justice system why is the the pre-trial procedures so important

Answer 1

Only a small percentage of cases "go to the box" (jury trial).  These pre-trial procedures are needed to dispose of the majority of cases through dismissals, plea bargains, etc...otherwise the justice system would ground to a halt within days.

Answer 2

To prepare for the trial, get your story and evidence right and ready to go. I would be worried if you had someone represent you and didn't do their homework before the trial. Think about it.  

Answer 3

It's important to the defense as they can have hearings prior to being in a jury trial that could help them suppress evidence, dismiss the charges, learn more about the charges, discover witness testimony, lock in witness testimony, among other things.  Motion hearings are always helpful for the defense to make that ever important decision as to whether or not they should risk going to a jury.