What is the function of a preliminary determination in court?

The function of a preliminary determination in court primarily involves deciding the admissibility of certain evidence. This process is crucial, as it allows the judge to evaluate whether the evidence meets the established legal standards for admissibility before it can be presented to the jury or fact-finder. Such determinations often occur outside the presence of the jury to ensure that prejudicial evidence does not influence the jury's perception of the case.

In this context, a preliminary determination allows the court to assess various factors, such as relevance, reliability, and whether the evidence violates any rules, such as those concerning hearsay or privilege. This procedural step ensures that the trial proceeds based on evidence that is deemed appropriate and lawful, helping to uphold the integrity of the judicial process and the rights of all parties involved.