What is the primary purpose of a motion in limine?

The primary purpose of a motion in limine is to limit or exclude certain evidence from being presented at trial. This legal tool is utilized by attorneys to address potential issues with evidence that may be prejudicial, irrelevant, or otherwise inadmissible under the rules of evidence. By filing a motion in limine before the trial begins, lawyers seek to establish parameters for what can and cannot be discussed or shown in court, thereby safeguarding the fairness of the trial and protecting the jury from being influenced by inappropriate or prejudicial information.

For instance, if a party anticipates that certain evidence could sway the jury’s decision based purely on emotions or biases rather than facts, they may request that this evidence be excluded from the trial. This helps ensure that the proceedings remain focused on relevant facts and laws applicable to the case. The court will then assess the motion and decide whether to allow or exclude the evidence in question before the trial commences.