In Clearwater, a pre-trial conference is set approximately one-week prior to trial. This conference is the final opportunity to reach a settlement in the case before the trial begins. If the case is not resolved at this conference, the trial will begin within 10 days.

Similar to the pre-trial hearings that took place prior to the pre-trial conference, the State Attorney will try to negotiate a settlement of the case. This offer to settle may include the opportunity to plead to a lesser charge, such as reckless driving. It may also include a negotiation on the penalties that will be imposed as the result of a guilty or no-contest plea. Commonly, plea-bargains include the defendant being placed on probation and a variety of terms and conditions relating to the term of probation. However, it is important to remember that each ‘plea-bargain’is unique for each defendant and will depend on the facts of the case and the circumstances of the defendant’s life.

If a plea agreement is accepted, the case will end and a sentencing date will be set. If an agreement is not made at the pre-trial conference, the case will proceed to a jury trial.